Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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254. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he has consulted with the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training and the European Training Foundation in respect of rolling out a workforce training programme that is fit for purpose according to the skills gaps in the workforce here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4487/17]

John Halligan (Waterford, Independent)
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The National Skills Strategy 2025 identifies Ireland’s current skills profile, provides a strategic vision and specific objectives for Ireland’s future skills requirements, and sets out a road map for how the vision and objectives can be achieved across the education and training sector.

With over 140 Actions, the Strategy sets out the Government's commitment to improving and using skills for sustainable economic growth and outlines how we can develop a well-skilled, adaptable workforce.

SOLAS are developing a Further Education and Training policy framework for employee development (PFED) to guide Education and Training Board activity to support skills development for those in employment, in consultation with partners, aligning with the National Skills Strategy. It is expected that the employee development policy framework and implementation plan will be published in Q2 2017.

In the context of the development of the National Skills Strategy and  developing responses to skills needs, my Department has had due regard to EU and international research and best practice.