Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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33. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her plans to expand and diversify the sectors in which persons may undertake apprenticeships; the funding that will be allocated to this; the extra apprenticeship places that will be funded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21932/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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The Apprenticeship Council issued a call for proposals for new apprenticeships in January. I understand that the Council has received 86 separate proposals from 48 organisations before the 31 March deadline. This is a very strong response and submissions were received from a wide range of sectors leading to qualifications at a range of levels.

The Council is currently in the process of evaluating submissions and it is required to report to me by 30 June. The Council's report will set out the proposals which can be developed into sustainable and viable apprenticeships. It will also include details of the resources required to progress those proposals and set out the work required to implement the new apprenticeships. I will consider the Council's report and decide on the allocation of resources and on any broader implementation issues arising.