Conor McGuinness (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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2558. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his view on the application for a new apprenticeship focused on the community and voluntary sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20060/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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The National Apprenticeship Office (NAO) has responsibility for all aspects of the management, oversight and development of the apprenticeship system in Ireland. In this capacity the NAO in conjunction with the National Apprenticeship Alliance oversees applications by industry bodies for the creation of new apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships are employer-led, and employers wishing to set up a new apprenticeship are required to provide the NAO with evidence of a substantial skills need within the sector that will be met by an apprenticeship. This should backed up by practical evidence of support from employers for the apprenticeship. In general, at least 15-20 employers should be on board.

The process to develop and deliver an apprenticeship can be found here: www.content.apprenticeship.ie/f/83224/x/46a5139d42/apprenticeshiphandbook_publicationjanuary2023.pdf