Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Nobody wants to give misleading figures. Senator Whelan is quite accurate in stating that there is a shortage of those skill sets because of the downturn in the economy. We are now in a different situation. There is a realisation that plasterers, chippies and those involved in the needs of industry have gone to America or Australia, or they are all over the world. Those tradesmen can return. I am aware at first hand that in my area there are tradesmen coming back from Australia and other places.

Senator Whelan's issue is the apprenticeships. I am certain that the Minister will keep it in mind. If the economy is to grow, we need workers with such skills. I certainly will report back the Senator's concern to the Minister. I would hope, as it should be the intention, that everybody involved ensures that there are apprentices to carry out projects and work as the economy improves in the future.