Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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46. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to reform the apprenticeship system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22605/20]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Apprenticeship in Ireland has undergone significant reform and expansion over the past 5 years. Pre-existing apprenticeships were reviewed and renewed and the introduction of a new model of apprenticeship has resulted in the development of 33 new consortia-led apprenticeship programmes delivered in innovative ways across all sectors of the economy. The first doctorate-level apprenticeship was launched recently and 20 further programmes are in development at various levels of the National Framework of Qualifications.

This expansion has been overseen by the enterprise-led Apprenticeship Council. The Council made structured calls for proposals for new apprenticeships in 2015 and 2017 and now accept submissions on a continuous basis.

Looking forward, the Government has set a target of 10,000 new apprentice registrations per annum by 2025. This compares against 6,177 registrations in 2019 and achieving this target will require significant focus in the Covid and post-Covid environment. I introduced a financial incentive for employers recruiting apprentices in these difficult circumstances during 2020 and my Department is now developing a new Action Plan on Apprenticeship to cover the period 2021-25.

In bringing forward a plan for the coming 5 years, I will be advancing the development of a consolidated apprenticeship system with a strong and clear model of governance. All aspects of the current system will be considered together with relevant international research to ensure that apprenticeship is best placed to respond to longer term economic needs while being flexible enough to respond to shorter term challenges.

In order to ensure the plan is well-informed and inclusive, I have launched a consultation process on key questions and challenges relevant to the apprenticeship system. The consultation paper is available on www.apprenticeship.ie and submissions are invited up to 18 September. I have asked that the plan be finalised by year end.