Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

37. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to report on progress on the actions on which his Department is leading in the 2024 climate action plan annexe of actions; if these actions are proceeding on time; to report on work to develop a framework to oversee emerging skills requirements for e-mobility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23270/24]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The eight actions for which my Department holds lead responsibility under Climate Action Plan 2024 (CAP24) are progressing in line with Climate Action Plan 2024 expectations. One action has already been completed for Q1 2024. A further two actions, regarding developing the green skills and capacities required for a net-zero economy at both Higher and Further Education respectively, are due for completion at the end of Q2 with five further actions agreed for Q4.

Action TR/24/2 – 'Developing a framework to oversee emerging skills requirements for e-mobility' is being led by SOLAS in conjunction with my officials and supported by the Department of Transport, was completed in Q1 2024. Skills requirements for electric vehicle maintenance include the development of upskilling and reskilling opportunities and progressing EV skills through existing motor mechanic apprenticeship programmes. SOLAS are actively working to consider how e-mobility skills can be most effectively delivered by the FET sector, as well as the full range of emerging skills in this area. To this end, SOLAS and DFHERIS have developed a skills oversight group which includes representatives from government departments, state agencies, industry, and further and higher education, in line with Action TR 24/2 of CAP 24. This oversight group will meet quarterly, and I am advised that the first meeting took place in April 2024.

My Department is working closely with its sectoral agencies to continue to achieve all of our agreed actions in a timely fashion.