Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD has launched a €3,000 financial incentive for employers to take on apprentices, with the unveiling of a billboard campaign to promote the scheme.

Speaking at the announcement of the winners of the Generation Apprenticeship competition, Minister Harris said, "Over 18,000 people are currently undertaking an apprenticeship across a wide range of occupations from electrical, construction and engineering roles to healthcare, information technology and financial services. Our ambition is to see that number grow and the government provided funding for this new incentive for employers in the July Stimulus package.”

He added, "I am pleased to be launching this incentive at the announcement of the winners of the Generation Apprenticeship competition. These winning teams demonstrate all that is good about apprenticeship and the key part it is going to play in Ireland’s recovery and our country’s future. It is a really exciting option for people of different ages, genders and backgrounds, career changers and school leavers, to forge brilliant careers for themselves.”

Under the new incentive employers can receive a €3,000 incentive payment for each new apprentice registered between March and the end of the year. Interested employers are encouraged to visit www.apprenticeship.ie for more information.