Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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145. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will address a matter regarding apprenticeships (details supplied). [7208/20]

John Halligan (Waterford, Independent)
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The Department of Education and Skills, SOLAS and the education and training providers are actively working to put in place alternative learning and assessment solutions for apprentices while maintaining the quality and integrity of the apprenticeship programme.

The majority of craft apprentices who were close to completing an off-the-job phase of training will be offered an opportunity to complete outstanding theory assessments. For Phase 4 and 6 apprentices, this will be in June 2020. An initial communication issued to relevant craft apprentices and employers on the 15th May, 2020. Guidelines which explain the arrangements for alternative assessment have since been issued to these apprentices.

During the months of March, April and May 2020 inclusive, apprentices who have been prevented in engaging in their on-the-job training by the Covid-19 restrictions will not have their apprenticeship temporarily or otherwise suspended. The national restrictions will not affect apprentices’ record of time-served, where relevant. SOLAS will again review this approach with its key stakeholders at the end of May 2020.

SOLAS are also providing updates for apprentices in regards to the Covid-19 situation on the apprenticeship website at www.apprenticeship.ie and also on Twitter @apprenticesirl. A link to information on employment supports is also available from the site as well as on www.welfare.ie.