Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2023
82. Deputy Cathal Berry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the reason no Air Corps apprentices have been inducted this year; when this induction is going to take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29271/23]
View answerMy officials and Military Management engage in regular and ongoing discussion on recruitment into the Defence Forces. This includes discussions regarding the recruitment of trainees, apprentices etc, and the scope and terms and conditions falling from that, where such proposals are made by Military Management.
With regard to Air Corps, it is my understanding that Air Corps Management are currently looking at the matter of apprentices and technicians, as part of the ongoing management of provision of maintenance and servicing of Air Corps aircraft, their engines, systems, equipment and weapons. It is my understanding also that Air Corps management is engaging with the Further Education sector regarding any accreditation matters that may arise from that.
In the event that there is any change in policy suggested by Military Management in this regard, this will require a Business Case to be developed by Military Management setting out the rationale for any proposed change in practice. Indeed, it is my understanding that Military Management has just, as of last Friday, submitted proposals to my Department to run a Trainee Military Aircraft Systems Technicians induction in 2023, and my officials will work closely with Military Management on progressing that.
Ultimately, however, any decision to run an Air Corps apprenticeship induction is a matter for Air Corps Management, and is dependent on the correct accreditation arrangements being in place. I am not currently in a position to say when an induction of apprentices will take place, but I will be very happy to provide this information to the Deputy, once the necessary arrangements have been finalised by Air Corps Management.
