LCH approach controller described near separation loss when local controller directed a departure head on to a landing visual approach aircraft; reporter questioned FAA's hiring practices and trainee's competence.

Narrative

I was working RADAR East position. Newly certified controller was working Local under general supervision in Tower. I had just taken RADAR position from previous controller and received full position briefing. A Lear 31 had been cleared on a visual approach to Runway 23 at LCH and noted that V23 had been entered into the timeshare scratch-pad; indicating aircraft was on a visual approach to Runway 23. As I went to switch the Learjet to the tower; Local launched the Helicopter to the NE; directly at the Learjet and switched him to me. Tower did not ensure any type of separation. Upon the helicopter changing to my frequency; I immediately issued traffic to both aircraft. The helicopter reported traffic in sight prior to separation being lost. This entire situation took place over an approximately 10 sec period. Recommendation; make the FAA academy pass/fail if they continue to hire people off the street without any aviation experience. The quality of trainees has been horrendous and is affecting morale at the facility level. The FAA should only hire controllers from CTI schools and the military.