Chamber chief says new apprentice ship targets are welcome

PRESIDENT of Wexford Chamber Karl Fitzpatrick has welcomed the announcement by Minister Richard Bruton of ambitious targets to increase and expand apprenticeship and traineeship places by 2020 and the allocation of an extra €20 million in funding for delivery this year.

Mr Fitzpatrick said increased workplace based learning programmes will play an important role in helping the Irish education system meet the demands and skills needs of a growing economy and an ever evolving jobs market.

Practical learning and orientation with elements of on-thejob placements ensure that graduates are workplace-ready, benefitting both businesses and job-seekers.

‘ The diversity of options being made available under the Plan.. will be vital in the Department’s goal of making the Irish education system the best in Europe within a decade,’ said Mr Fitzpatrick.

‘Workplace and skills based learning must play a greater role in Ireland’s education system going forward and the increase in apprenticeships and traineeships is much needed.

‘ The challenge now will be to encourage uptake and promote the varied opportunities that apprenticeships and traineeships can offer to students and businesses.

‘For too long they have been associated with a limited number of trades.’

Mr Fitzpatrick said SMEs in many sectors have much to gain from working with SOLAS and engaging in apprenticeship and traineeship programmes and the chamber encourage businesses to get involved.