COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

QUESTION NO.17

QUESTION: Councillor C. Brady

To ask the Chief Executive what apprenticeship opportunities currently exist or are planned, particularly in relation to bridge and gate construction, and what succession planning measures are in place to ensure continuity of this work currently undertaken in-house and which is much praised and admired in the community for the unique value it adds to our parks.

REPLY:

In 2025 SDCC has recruited two Civil Engineering apprentices and are finalising the details to release a competition for two Motor Mechanic apprentices.

A number of craft apprenticeships were explored in 2025, however SDCC were not in a position to meet the standard requirements as set out by SOLAS in the areas such as Steel Fabrication, Heavy Vehicle Mechanics & Plastering – such requirements are needed to provide a full and comprehensive experience for the apprentice.

Learning & Development are engaging with the Education Training Board to explore opportunities for a Brick & Stonelaying apprenticeship in 2026, subject to standard requirements being met.

It is envisaged that a further 5 apprenticeships will be explored in 2026 in a wide variety of disciplines which may include opportunities in Horticulture, Civil Engineering and other emerging professional apprenticeship areas.