Apprenticeship plans welcomed

Jun 19 2009 by Michael Pringle

THE SCOTTISH Government’s announcement on apprenticeships has been welcomed by Ayrshire MSPs.

Almost 1000 apprentices or trainees, the majority in the construction industry, have been made redundant. Around 60 of these redundancies have been within South and East Ayrshire.

ScotAction is the Scottish Government’s skills support package. An increase in funding of £16million was announced for 7800 apprenticeships this year.

Graeme Ogilvy, director for ConstructionSkills Scotland, said: “In the current economic climate, like many other sectors, it is a challenging time for the construction industry. Apprentices are the lifeblood of this industry and it is important that we invest in the continuing development and training of the next generation of workers.”

The plans also include the ‘adopt an apprentice’ scheme where employers will be encouraged to pick up workers who have been made redundant and ensuring they are able to complete their training.

Cathy Jamieson MSP said: “I welcome the fact that the Scottish Government are at last living up to their commitment, and I hope that it will ensure that these trainees get back into work fast.”

Adam Ingram MSP insisted this is only the start: “Over the next few weeks we will be announcing further support through ScotAction to help employers recruit and retain apprentices.”