Paul Connaughton (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 90: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the steps that can be taken to complete an apprenticeship in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway. [16972/11]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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My Department has contacted FÁS about this case. I understand from FÁS that the person in question has to-date completed six of the required seven phases of the Standards Based Apprenticeship Programme in the trade of Plasterer. He completed Phase 6 of his Apprenticeship in the Athlone Institute of Technology from 4th January, 2010 to 12th March, 2010 but did not complete Phase 7 or the associated assessments.

In order to qualify for the FETAC Advanced Certificate Craft, it is a requirement that all seven phases of the apprenticeship are successfully completed and that all the associated assessments have been passed. It is also a requirement of the Standards Based Apprenticeship that the required four years have been completed (i.e. 208 weeks) in paid insurable employment with an approved employer in the trade.

FÁS has introduced a number of initiatives to assist Redundant Apprentices to complete their apprenticeship: Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme Recognition of Prior Learning Phase 7 Equivalent Assessment Programme (mandatory to apply for recognition of prior learning) Other FÁS Courses relevant to the trade which may be included for consideration as part of an Application for Prior Leaning.

I understand that the person was contacted by FÁS on 4th April, 2011 to establish if he wished to participate in the Redundant Apprentice Placement Programme but that he declined the offer. I also understand that the Phase 7 Assessments must be conducted in this jurisdiction in order to gain the Irish Qualification for Tradespersons i.e. FETAC Advanced Certificate Craft. Once this has been completed, the person may make an application under Recognition of Prior Learning for recognition of any relevant and verifiable work experience relating to his trade.