Apprenticeship System Vital to Future Skills Needs - Kitt

Tom Kitt, T.D., Minister for Labour Affairs, today (Monday, 4th October, 1999) presented National Craft Certificates to graduating apprentices of the new Standards-Based Apprenticeship System at the Concert Hall, R.D.S., Dublin 4.

Speaking at the presentation, Minister Kitt said that apprenticeship must not to be seen in our modern economy as a relic of history. "Far from it", he continued, "the apprenticeship system is a vital contributor to the supply of skills which are so important to the continuing success of modern Irish industry. It is imperative, in the economic interest, that the flow of these skills continues and that standards of craftwork are constantly re-assessed and improved upon."

The contribution of the apprenticeship system to Ireland's present economic buoyancy can be traced back to the significant review of all the major craft trades which was carried out in the early 1990s. The new model, the Standards-Based Apprenticeship System, is based on a combination of structured off-the-job training/education and the practice and development of skills in the workplace. The system provides high quality training, education and work experience to all apprentices.

Minister Kitt added "I am very anxious that the apprenticeship system should be a realistic and attractive option for all". In that regard, the Minister said that he was "very encouraged to learn that this year, for the first time, there are women represented in all of the designated crafts training schedules. I would also be anxious to ensure that the scheme is opened up to groups such as mature persons, those with disabilities and the disadvantaged. I will be cncouraging FÁS and the other players in the apprenticeship field to continue their efforts so that more broadly based access to apprenticeship is achieved."

In concluding his remarks of congratulations to the graduates, Minister Kitt added "apprenticeship is acknowledged as one of the most effective and relevant ways in which essential workplace skills can be acquired. This is something that I would like to convey to every young person and employer. Skills cannot be learned overnight and Industry must make proper use of the system by recruiting and training adequate numbers of apprentices to meet its future needs. Employers have to recognise that meeting their future skills needs is primarily their responsibility."