During the recession the number of apprenticeship positions declined. However, while the industries did suffer during the downturn and couldn't take on as many trainees, they were also one of the first industries to come out of recession. Now, the areas of construction, brick laying, plumbing, mechanics among other trades are seeing an ageing workforce and a lack of new apprentices.
On Thursday our reporter Sheila Naughton spoke to Liam Hetherington Director of GPD Construction about the career opportunities apprenticeships can offer, the need for their inclusion in education, as well as encouraging more women to pursue work in the trade industry.