This month, the Public Affairs team drafted a paper detailing the Chamber’s position on apprenticeships under the guidance and critical input of membership and the Chamber’s labour taskforce. The topic of apprenticeships has emerged as an area of interest for Chamber members looking to address challenges of attracting and retaining appropriately staff, which continues to rank among the largest issues facing Dublin and its businesses.

Key recommendations include:

• Modern Rebranding of Apprenticeships

- Launch a campaign highlighting diverse, modern apprenticeship opportunities.

- Promote the 'administrative transfer' option for SMEs

- Improve the flexibility of apprenticeship curriculums so that they can be tailored to specific businesses.

• Strengthen Employer Engagement

- Deepen industry collaboration and include Dublin Chamber in the Apprentice Alliance.

• Focus on Future-aligned Apprenticeships

- Develop apprenticeships supporting digital and green sectors.

- Streamline procedures for new consortia-led apprenticeships.

• Overcome Perceptual Barriers

- Launch a campaign replacing traditional apprenticeship imagery with modern representations.

• Expand Apprenticeship Appeal

- Promote apprenticeships in emerging sectors, targeting diverse demographics.

• Reduce Bureaucratic Hurdles

- Simplify apprenticeship program structures.

- Clarify funding for off-the-job learning.

The report included 10 in-depth, actionable recommendations on how these points can be addressed. The paper will be available to read on Dublin Chamber’s campaign page once it has been submitted.