Government must do more to encourage young people into trades

A Kerry TD says the government must do more to encourage young people into trades.

Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae is calling for a more proactive approach from government in promoting apprenticeships, especially among the traditional trades.

Deputy Healy-Rae made the call following the recent announcement of €20 million in capital funding to expand apprenticeships across the country.

He says the government must do more both to retain tradespeople and encourage young people into these careers.

The Independent TD is also warning that a fall in construction apprenticeships, and a lack of workers in the industry, would threaten the post-covid economic recovery.