Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 140: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to assist a person (details supplied) to complete their apprenticeship. [22874/11]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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My Department has been in contact with FÁS about the case in question. I understand that FÁS will be introducing shortly a Competency Determination Mechanism to enable eligible redundant apprentices in the trade of Brick & Stonelaying to complete their apprenticeship. This will provide redundant apprentices with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and knowledge against the occupational standard for the specified trade.

Those who successfully pass the Competency Determination Mechanism will be progressed for the award of the FETAC Level 6 Advanced Certificate – Craft.

To be eligible for the Competency Determination Mechanism redundant apprentices must meet the following criteria: be redundant as an apprentice as notified by their employer and be registered with FÁS Employment Services; have successfully completed all Phases 1-7 inclusive, reaching the minimum standard; and have not completed 4 years in employment as an apprentices in the trade

I also understand that FÁS intend to invite eligible redundant apprentices to register their intent to participate in the Competency Determination Mechanism in the near future.