Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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49. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the current number of apprenticeships here by class and by participant per each class; his views on whether there are a sufficient number of apprenticeship places available here; his plans to reform the number of places on offer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16835/14]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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This is a day to day operational matter for SOLAS. The statistical data requested by the Deputy is set out in the attachment to the question. It should be noted that apprenticeship is entirely demand-led with the State providing off-the-job training for all apprentices registered by approved employers.

The recently published Review of Apprenticeship Training in Ireland proposed a framework which provides scope for an expanded range of apprenticeships operating at any level of the National Framework of Qualifications, from Level 5 upwards. An independent review of apprenticeship training in Ireland was published in January. The review includes recommendations for change in the existing model as well as a number of detailed recommendations regarding the expansion of apprenticeship into other sectors.

My Department is currently undertaking a consultation process with stakeholders with regard to the implementation of the review group's recommendations. An implementation plan is expected to be finalised by the middle of the year.

Apprentice Registrations by Trade and Family Mar-14