Labour TD Gerald Nash has welcomed the report by a review group set up to assess apprenticeship training systems in Ireland, stating the provisions in the report should be implemented without delay.

Mr Nash said: "This is an area that hasn't been examined in any comprehensive way in over 20 years. In those two decades, our economy has changed fundamentally, but the apprenticeship system has been slow to respond to these changes.

"For far longer than it was feasible, the Irish apprenticeship system focused almost exclusively on construction-related programmes. I am convinced that the outright neglect shown by previous administrations to the development of a more multi-dimensional apprenticeship system has contributed to youth unemployment.

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"This review group looked at best practice in other countries and has recommended that we extend apprenticeship schemes into newer and growing sectors of the economy including ICT, pharmaceuticals, and key service industries.

"The State training body, SOLAS, would be the governing body for apprenticeships, which would consist of an appropriate mix of formal learning and on-the-job training.

"The definition of apprenticeship also needs to tightened up. Apprentices must be convinced that an apprenticeship is worthwhile and that career progression and genuine pathways are signposted and underwritten by industry and by the State.

"Whilst we correctly strive to move Ireland towards a knowledge economy, it is vital that we do not neglect our vocational education. There are, and there should be, alternatives to higher education which respect and encourage all talents, and value all jobs and skills sets from both a social and economic vantage point."

(CD/JP)