Donegal TD calls for new apprenticeship schemes to catch up with the UK

Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher Leas-Cheann Comhairle has urged the Government to accelerate the number and range of apprenticeship schemes available to young people.

Deputy Gallagher has said the entire apprenticeship programme has ground to a halt over the past 6 years.  

He stated the current model of apprenticeship is no longer fit for purpose and called for a wider and more diverse range of choices to meet the needs of the economy moving forward.

Pat the Cope expressed concern about Ireland’s ability to compete with Britain in a post-Brexit era: “because of the scale and diversity of apprenticeships on offer in the UK, there simply is no comparison between the choices in the UK system of apprenticeships than what is on offer in this country,” he said.

He said the outstanding apprentices who represented Ireland in the WorldSkills event in Abu Dhabi in recent days are testament to the impact apprentices can have among the Irish labour force.

Pat the Cope said: “Minister Halligan must move faster to introduce new opportunities and occupations if we are to catch up with our competitors and help address skills shortages in key areas.

“The latest round of proposals was sent to the Apprenticeship Council on September 1st – and it is essential that they are considered as soon as possible. 

“School-leavers should have access to a much greater range of career options, but this Government has come late to the table in terms of recognising the potential of apprenticeship schemes.”

Pat the Cope stated: “Apprenticeships must also be marketed as true and equivalent alternatives to college places for many, as it is correct to state college life does not suit every individual.

“ Apprenticeships are a mechanism for achieving the maximum potential of every individual – providing them with an opportunity to find their talents, gifts and niche in life.

“I would expect all Public bodies such as the HSE, RTÉ, ESB, local authorities and State departments would also create their own apprenticeships, in partnership with relevant education providers.”

“Irish-resident companies, which already offer apprenticeships in the UK, could replicate these models in Ireland, as could some of the global tech firms based here.  Other companies involved in the airline, media, retail, public relations, pharmaceutical, child and social care sectors should also be encouraged to run relevant apprenticeships.  

“We need to see the active promotion of apprenticeship programmes through public information campaigns.  This would help mobilise support among potential employers, education providers and apprentices,” concluded Pat the Cope

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