Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

205. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if advice can be provided to a person (details supplied) on the best way to progress their career given the perceived gender bias and imbalance in apprenticeships against women; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31593/16]

John Halligan (Waterford, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will be aware there are currently 27 trades covered by the existing apprenticeship system. Historically these apprenticeships have been concentrated in sectors where employment is largely male and as a result female participation has been low.  There are efforts to increase female participation in the current trades, including a bursary scheme, however, despite this the number of female apprentices remain low.

The Apprenticeship Council is currently overseeing the expansion of the apprenticeship system into a range of new areas, following a call for proposals from employers and education and training providers. 25 proposals have been prioritised by the Council for development. The first of these new apprenticeships, the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship, was launched last month with further new apprenticeships to be launched later this year and early next year. Many of these new apprenticeships are in sectors where there is a different gender balance in the workplace and as a result will lead to a strong increase in female participation when these new apprenticeships are launched in the coming months

Accompanying the expansion of apprenticeship in Ireland will be a new branding and marketing campaign. SOLAS will examine how this campaign can assist with promoting apprenticeship to women and to their potential employers.

Recruitment of apprentices is undertaken directly by employers and in all cases the apprentice enters into a contract of employment.  The individual in question should be advised to contact their local Intreo Office as this network maintain close links with local employers and are best placed to assist her in her search for employment, including potential apprenticeship opportunities.