276. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to assist apprentices that have had exams cancelled and need to pass those exams to graduate to the next phase of their training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6372/20]

SOLAS is actively engaged with the education and training providers to put in place alternative learning and assessment solutions for apprentices which safeguard learner safety in the current climate as well as maintaining the quality and integrity of the apprenticeship programme.

It is intended that the majority of craft apprentices who were close to completing an off-the-job phase of training in March 2020 will be offered an opportunity to complete outstanding theory assessments before the end of June.  An initial communication on this matter issued to relevant craft apprentices and employers on the 15th May, 2020 with a follow-up text on the 18th May.  Further information will issue in the near future.

SOLAS provides ongoing updates for apprentices and employers in relation to the impact of Covid-19 on apprenticeship programmes. These may be found at www.apprenticeship.ie and also on Twitter @apprenticesirl.