Collaboration Delivers – An Important Step Forward for EAL Qualification Recognition

We are delighted to share an important development regarding the recognition of EAL electrotechnical qualifications in the Republic of Ireland.

Following a period of engagement and clarification, confirmation has been received that the EAL Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification (601/7345/2) and the EAL Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment) (501/1605/8) will be considered suitable qualifications for direct entry as a Qualified Certifier (QC) with a Registered Electrical Contractor (REC) in the Safe Electric scheme.

This is an important outcome for apprentices, qualified electricians, employers and training providers, and demonstrates the value of organisations working together to resolve practical barriers facing the workforce.

The issue was brought to ETT’s attention by the Department for the Economy NI following concerns about recognition of the EAL NVQ Level 3 electrical qualification in the Republic of Ireland.

ETT’s position was that apprentices and qualified electricians should not be disadvantaged because their qualification was awarded by one recognised awarding organisation rather than another where equivalent occupational competence is demonstrated. The information provided highlighted that the EAL and City & Guilds Level 3 qualifications are based on the same National Occupational Standards and use comparable assessment approaches.

ETT raised concerns reported by industry and provided information about the qualifications and their importance to the Northern Ireland apprenticeship system. EAL formally challenged the position and supplied detailed evidence on the content, assessment and industry standing of its qualifications.

Kathleen O’Hare also raised the issue at ministerial level in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, seeking support for a resolution. This helped ensure the issue was considered in the wider context of skills, qualifications and workforce mobility.

EAL’s engagement ultimately resulted in confirmation from the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) that the relevant qualifications would be suitable for direct entry as a Qualified Certifier within the Safe Electric scheme.

This is an outcome worth celebrating and demonstrates what that collaboration can achieve. A concern about qualification recognition developed into coordinated engagement between ETT, Department for the Economy NI, EAL and wider industry stakeholders across both jurisdictions, resulting in greater clarity for the sector.