(1) The functions of the Council are to ¾

(a) register and de-register training providers;

(b) accredit, and vary and cancel the accreditation of, courses and skills training programmes and the qualifications gained from such courses and skills training programmes;

(c) recognise skills and qualifications obtained by individuals in this State or elsewhere, in industry, the workplace or educational institutions;

(d) determine the minimum competency to be provided by accredited courses and skills training programmes;

(e) provide advice to the Board on matters relating to the functions specified in paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d); and

(f) recommend to the Minister the vocations it considers should be prescribed for the purposes of section 59 and advise the Minister on any conditions or requirements which should apply to those vocations.

(2) The functions of the Council under subsection (1)(a), (b), (c) and (d) may be performed on the application of a training provider or other person or on the initiative of the Council.

(3) A decision of the Council made in the performance of a function under subsection (1)(a), (b), (c) or (d) takes effect ¾

(a) where no appeal is lodged under section 31, when the time for lodging an appeal has passed;

(b) where an appeal is lodged under section 31, when that appeal is determined under section 34 or is withdrawn; or

(c) on such later day as may be specified by the Council.