COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, July 08, 2024

QUESTION NO.22

QUESTION: Councillor L. Dunne

To ask the Chief Executive when will the reestablishment of the Apprenticeship Scheme commence?

REPLY:

Following completion of the most recent Apprenticeship Programme, the Council's HR Department, working with SIPTU trade union, developed and piloted a General Operative Traineeship Programme in 2024 in partnership with the Education Training Board (ETB). It was agreed to put the Apprenticeship programme on hold in order to dedicate efforts to the success of this programme. Through this programme, 11 individuals were provided with a comprehensive suite of training by the ETB, followed by a 10-week work placement with the Council across our various outdoor Depots.  On successful completion of the placement, temporary 6-month General Operative contracts have been offered to provide a broad range of work experience.  9 of the initial group have commenced their 6-month temporary contracts with the Council in mid-June.  Initial feedback on the programme is extremely positive and the Council will now consider replicating this programme going forward, with a balance to be struck in tandem with the level of apprenticeships. 

The HR department will be engaging across management and with Solas to identify suitable Apprenticeship opportunities and develop a programme that will meet with Solas requirements and standards and to meet business need.