Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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755. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if his Department has considered making a policy regarding sick pay arrangements for apprentices who suffer significant illness during the duration of the apprenticeship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41325/26]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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All apprentices in Ireland are employees and remain so for the duration of their apprenticeship. As such, apprentices and their employers are subject to the applicable employment laws regarding sick pay. While my Department does not have a role in getting employment law in this regard, which falls under the remit of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, the impact of periods of illness on apprenticeship progression is addressed within the apprenticeship framework.

The SOLAS Apprenticeship Code of Practice for Employers and Apprentices highlights that all apprentice employers must comply with their statutory obligations, including all relevant current employment legislation.

It also provides that any period of time spent on sick leave in excess of six weeks in any 12-month period will not count towards completion of the apprenticeship programme. During such an absence, the apprenticeship will be temporarily suspended. SOLAS retains discretion in relation to the suspension of apprenticeships.

Upon registration, all apprentices are assigned a Training Advisor to act as their primary point of contact for any issues or queries concerning their apprenticeships. If an apprentice is experiencing difficulties or has concerns about how something may impact their apprenticeship, including illness, they should speak with their Training Advisor, who can provide advice and support.