Sinn Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed the announcement of the detail of the scheme to support for employers to retain and recruit apprentices.

The party’s economy spokesperson said:

“I welcome this much-needed support package for employers to bring apprentices back from furlough and to recruit new apprentices under these difficult financial circumstances.

“It is important to ensure there continues to be training and reskilling opportunities for both young people and those who have been made redundant.

“I met with officials from the Department of the Economy (DfE) yesterday to discuss the details and to press the need for certainty around the scheme and I was told an announcement was imminent.

“The scheme will begin on 1 November with employers getting £500 when an apprentice returns from furlough, a further £2,000 if they retain them for four months and £3,000 for each new apprentice they recruit until 31 March 2021.

“The Department needs to provide information to employers as soon as possible on how they can apply for the scheme.”