Review of a decision not to expand a pilot shared apprenticeship scheme for the construction sector

QUESTION

To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the outcome of the review of a decision not to expand a pilot shared apprenticeship scheme for the construction sector in 2018; his plans in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
REPLY



Registrations on craft apprenticeships have grown strongly in recent years following a very significant collapse in the number of apprenticeship registrations between 2008 and 2011. SOLAS, in partnership with Construction Industry Federation (CIF) and Waterford Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB), operated a pilot initiative to test the viability of a shared apprenticeship scheme.  

Following analysis of the pilot outcomes and in consultation with both the CIF and WWETB, I understand that SOLAS decided not to operationalise the pilot initiative more widely.  In particular, it was found that the pilot did not attract employers in sufficient numbers to suggest that the scheme had the potential to have a significant impact on apprenticeship recruitment. 

However, I understand from SOLAS that they are currently in discussions with representatives from the construction industry to assess how the scheme could be made more viable. CIF are currently seeking support from their members and employers for the shared apprenticeship scheme in order to progress the matter.