Backlogs for apprentices training is “scandalous” says Farrell

Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has said that “scandalous” backlogs for apprentices’ training must be urgently addressed.

There are just under 9,000 apprentices currently waiting for off-the-job training, with nearly 4,000 waiting for more than six months.

Deputy Farrell said that she is regularly contacted by apprentices who are deeply anxious and distressed by these delays, saying that they are left in limbo and feel badly let down by government.

“Apprentices are crucial to the Irish economy and ensuring homes can be built,” said the Sinn Féin TD.

“Failing to support them is yet another sign of the government’s short sighted and chaotic inability to plan for the future and deliver affordable homes. We are in the middle of a housing crisis and government should be doing everything possible to ensure homes can be built.”

She said that several apprentices have told her that they fear they will have no option but to emigrate due to these delays.

“Meanwhile, we have a Higher Education Minister who is asleep at the wheel,” said Deputy Farrell.

“Minister Harris seems intent on focusing on glossy PR launches and re-announcements of existing schemes to get headlines. He should focus less on his own spin and open his eyes to the reality that apprentices are facing.”