Training : OPTIONS include Post Leaving Certificate courses, training with FAS or with private salons.
Sample salaries : THE Hairdressing Joint Labour Committee has set down minimum rates, which apply in Dublin and Cork. The following rates apply in Co Dublin, Dun Laoghaire and the urban district of Bray, Co Wicklow: £50 a week in first year; £57 in second year, £69 in third year and £99.37 in fourth year. JLC rates for women's hairdressing are £147.30 plus 10 per cent commission on personal takings; while for men's hairdressing the minimum rate is £149.47 plus 12.5 per cent commission after personal takings of £18.
In practice, rates vary but first-year trainees in Dublin can earn up to £100 a week. First years elsewhere can expect to earn in the region of £60 to £70 a week
Trained hairdressers average about £20,000 to £25,000 per annum while those at the very top of the profession can earn £35,000-plus. Hairdressers are usually paid a basic rate plus commission.
FAS training centres : THERE are eight centres offering hairdressing courses: Jervis Street, Dublin; Cork; Tralee, Co Kerry; Limerick; Athlone, Co Westmeath; Sligo; Letterkenny, Co Donegal, and Waterford. The Jervis Street Centre is involved in piloting the new programme developed by FAS, the VEC and industry.
The PLC option : THERE are no tuition fees for PLC courses. Students are eligible to apply for means-tested maintenance grants. Most courses lead to a qualification awarded by the National Council for Vocational Awards.
Contact : THE Irish Hairdresser's Federation can be contacted by writing to Marie Ruane, IHF secretary, 19 Broadford Ave, Ballinteer, Dublin 16.
