Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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238. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which it might be found possible to facilitate a substantial increase in the availability in apprenticeships with particular reference to ensuring an adequate supply of skilled personnel to meet economic needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4242/14]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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In order to provide a modern and flexible Irish Apprenticeship System, reflective of the relevant skills requirements of both industry and potential apprentices, I established an independent group to carry out a comprehensive review of the Apprenticeship System in Ireland last year.

Following consultation with relevant stakeholders, the Review Group prepared a comprehensive report and made a number of recommendations with regard to the existing apprenticeship system as well as a framework for a future expanded programme of apprenticeship. This report was received in December and I have considered its contents and have published it on my Department's website, www.education.ie.

My Department will now work with stakeholder on implementation arrangements for the report's recommendations.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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239. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if any particular measures may be taken to facilitate those who were unable to complete their apprenticeships due to the economic downturn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4243/14]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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SOLAS has introduced a range of measures to assist redundant apprentices who have a time deficit in their apprenticeship.

A Competency Determination Mechanism (CDM) provides redundant apprentices with the opportunity, subject to demand, to demonstrate their skills and knowledge against the occupational standard for the following specified trades over a number of days in a Training Centre.

- Brick & Stonelaying

- Cabinet Making

- Carpentry & Joinery

- Electrical

- Metal Fabrication

- Motor Mechanics

- Plastering

- Plumbing

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

To be eligible for the Competency Determination Mechanism redundant apprentices must: be redundant as an apprentice as notified by their employer and be registered with the Department of Social Protection and have successfully completed all Phases 1 – 7 inclusive, reaching the minimum standard, and have not completed 4 years in employment as an apprentice in the trade. Redundant apprentices receive a letter from SOLAS inviting them to register their interest in participating in CDM. Redundant apprentices registered for 4 years who have successfully completed all Phases 1-7 but have not completed the required 4 years in employment as an apprentice in the trade, (excluding Air Craft Mechanic) may submit a portfolio of evidence to SOLAS of related education, training and work experience under Recognition of Prior Learning for consideration by the National Apprenticeship Advisory Sub-committee for the award of the Level 6 Advanced Certificate – Craft.