Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 3: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the options available to skilled trades persons planning to emigrate for work in the short term to acquire accreditation for specific trades; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4298/11]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Skilled trades persons who are registered with FAS as apprentices and who wish to validate their competence may apply for the National Craft Certificate or the Advanced Certificate (Craft) awarded by FETAC under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) procedures. The RPL procedures cover three categories of applicant: - FAS registered time-served craftspersons applying for a National Craft Certificate - Apprentices newly registered with FAS and who are seeking exemptions from the Standards Based Apprenticeship Programme. Exemptions are based on a portfolio of evidence submitted by the applicant to FAS Apprenticeship Services for subsequent subject matter expert analysis. - FAS registered apprentices under the Standards Based Apprenticeship Programme who have completed Phases 1 - 7 (including Phase 7 equivalent assessments where appropriate) of their apprenticeship but who have not completed four years in employment as an apprentice from the date of registration. These persons can submit a portfolio of evidence to include further training, education and work experience to the Redundant Apprentice Accreditation Committee for consideration for award of the Advanced Certificate (Craft).

Skilled trades persons who wish to make an application under the RPL procedures can request an application form from their local FAS Services to Business office and will be duly assisted in establishing their eligibility.

In relation to qualifications under the Standards Based Apprenticeship Programme an apprentice who has successfully completed an apprenticeship in Ireland is awarded the FETAC Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Craft). This is a compulsory requirement for craftsperson status in Ireland and has both national and international recognition.