Written answers

Tuesday, 22 November 2011

Department of Education and Skills

FÁS Training Programmes

8:00 pm

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 147: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a further 12 weeks must be completed post-Christmas 2011 in respect of a FÁS course already undertaken by a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath in view of the fact that they have completed 272 weeks to date for same of which documentation can be provided by their employer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35438/11]

Photo of Ciarán CannonCiarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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I understand that in order to qualify as an electrical craftsperson, an apprentice must be employed by a FÁS approved employer and complete all seven alternating on-the-job and off-the-job phases of their apprenticeship, which is a minimum of four years (208 weeks) in duration from the date of registration, as well as achieving the qualifying standard throughout their apprenticeship. I am informed by FÁS that an examination of the apprenticeship records of the person in question indicates that he requires another 12 weeks in employment with a FÁS approved employer. If he can secure employment with a FÁS approved employer for the period of 12 weeks he will qualify as a craftsperson and he will be awarded his FETAC Craft Certificate, which will validate his competence.

Alternatively, he is eligible to participate on the Competency Determination Mechanism (CDM), which has been introduced by FÁS to enable eligible redundant apprentices to complete their apprenticeships if they are short of the minimum time requirements. Further information on the FÁS CDM initiative can be sourced on the FÁS website www.fas.ie. The person in question is advised to remain in contact with his assigned FÁS Training Adviser, Mr. Charlie Walsh, (0877444537) to discuss the options available to him.

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