Shortage of skilled catering workers
Deputy Crotty highlighted shortages of skilled catering and baking workers and inadequate training facilities, asking about expanding training; the Minister cited plans for 300 additional craft training places. Crotty reiterated the shortage, and the Ceann Comhairle noted that he was providing information rather than seeking it.
I am pleased that the Minister requires the industry to contribute. It is the least they can do. Is the Minister aware that there is a grave shortage of skilled personnel in catering and baking, that facilities are not available for training and so on? In view of that and in view of the grave unemployment figures has the Minister any plans to expand training in these fields? It appears that these are the only fields where we have not enough personnel to fill the vacancies available.
Comment on this
I take the Deputy's point. Apart from what I have said here, the maintenance of CERT operations at existing levels will continue to underline the Government's emphasis on the strategic importance of tourism. In the National Plan agreed with the social partners there is agreement to increase by 300, craft training places. CERT, wherever possible have tried to increase their numbers to ensure that there is adequate numbers to fill vacancies.
Comment on this
It is common knowledge that skilled personnel are not available. It was recently brought to my notice that the employment agencies have inserted advertisements looking for personnel to go on their books. Here is an area where employment is available and we have not the training available to create skilled craftsmen.
