PLAID CYMRU has called for the Welsh Government to set a good example after failing to employ any apprentices in 2015, shortly before launching a manifesto pledge of 100,000 apprenticeships in Wales.
In 2011, the WG recruited 68 apprentices, but this number has declined year-on-year, down to 22 in 2014. In 2016 so far, 19 apprentices have been recruited.
The information comes from a Freedom of Information request by Plaid Cymru’s Llyr Gruffydd, the Party of Wales’ Shadow Secretary for Lifelong Learning.
Mr Gruffydd said: “The Welsh Government is a major employer with more than 5,000 staff throughout Wales.
“It has a target of 100,000 apprenticeships in Wales over the next five years and should be setting a better example by taking on apprentices. Since 2011, the figure has been sliding from a peak of 68 to zero in 2015. This year’s figure shows a modest rise to 19 but it’s still a disappointing amount given the size of the organisation and the need to set a good example.
“Employers will wonder whether the Government is serious about apprenticeships if it doesn’t practice what it preaches. Plaid Cymru believes the Welsh Government should be doing more to promote apprenticeships and setting a good example for all other employers in Wales.”
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