Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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613. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason that SOLAS is insisting that apprenticeship examinations are held on site in colleges in 2021 when other third-level examinations are been held remotely; if medical advice was obtained by SOLAS in relation to this policy; if he is satisfied that this policy does not pose a risk by bringing students back on campus for the duration of the examinations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25735/21]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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COVID-19 related suspension of practical training in Training Centres, Institutes of Technology and Technological Universities has had a significant impact on the ability of craft apprentices to access off-the-job training leading to an increase in waiting times for completion of practical training and assessment and an effective extension of the duration of some craft apprenticeship programmes.

To ensure that apprentices are facilitated in progressing in their programmes insofar as possible, the theory aspects of off-the-job training for craft apprenticeship has been delivered remotely since early January.  Given the nature of craft apprenticeship practical training and assessment forms a substantial and essential component of the programmes.

A phased return to face to face training has commenced for those apprentices who had been undertaking remote teaching and learning or who were close to completion of phase 2, 4 or 6 when training was suspended in January 2021.When permissible, practical training is operating at approximately 50% normal capacity to ensure adherence to public health guidance. 

Since 6^thApril, phase 4 and phase 6 craft apprentices have returned onsite in Institutes of Technology (IoTs) and Technological Universities (TUs) in a phased and controlled manner to complete essential practical training and assessment.  

Completion of practical training and assessment is required to allow apprentices to progress to their next phase of training and to complete their apprenticeship in a timely manner. All institutions with learners (including apprentices) onsite are operating on the basis of current public health guidance.