Higher education and apprenticeship legislation
Seán Ó Fearghaíl asks for progress on higher-education and apprenticeship Bills. The Taoiseach describes apprenticeships as a priority, says consultation proposals are being considered, and reports that higher-education Bill heads are being drafted.
Across the country tens of thousands of young people are completing their Central Applications Office, CAO, forms. What is happening to the higher education Bill that has been promised?
We know there is a crisis in the apprenticeship area, notwithstanding the consultations the Minister for Education and Skills has engaged in. Can the Taoiseach give the House an undertaking that the apprenticeship Bill will see the light of day before this Government ceases its term of office?
Comment on this
Can the Taoiseach not get what he wants?
Comment on this
This is an important issue. The Government has given substantial backing to SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority. The Minister of State for Education and Skills is working very diligently on this. He has taken into account all of the 90 public consultation propositions. It is critical to provide new opportunities for apprenticeships and new ways for young people. I want the Deputy to understand that this is a priority I want to see happen. I am very anxious that it be drafted and approved as quickly as possible.
The heads of the higher education Bill are being drafted and it should be published in the latter part of the year.