A review of the apprenticeships is currently underway by the Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills

BATU Deputy General Secretary Andrew Smith made a comprehensive written submission on behalf of BATU and was subsequently invited to appear and give evidence to the Committee at its meeting on Tuesday 16th May 2017.

The main points Mr Smith raised on behalf of BATU were,

• The fact that the Construction Industry in Ireland has become totally unregulated, means that the industry offers no future to the young people interested in a construction apprenticeship and until the curse of BOGUS SELF-EMPLOYMENT is removed and the Revenue Commissioners change their policy on eRCT’S, Construction Apprenticeships are not an attractive option for young people.
• The Government must remove the unjust charge of €2000 imposes on apprentices in the construction industry for modules 4 and 6.
• The training centres must be reopened without delay, where they are needed most.
• And finally, that all apprentices should be given the opportunity to access higher education free of charge to at least level 8.