asked the Minister for Education the action which is being taken on foot of the Programme for Action in Education (details supplied) in relation to the provision in order that at any stage in life, after the period of compulsory school attendance, people could sit for any of the national examinations; the provision which exists at present in regard to this matter; the provision which existed some years ago; and if any change is envisaged.
Written Answers. - National Examinations.
344.
Under existing provisions, special admission to the leaving certificate examination is available to anyone who has attained the age of 17. For admission to both intermediate and day vocational (group) examinations, candidates must have completed an approved course as recognised pupils. Under these provisions, mature students may sit for the intermediate certificate examination provided they have followed a course approved by the Department. There are no admission requirements for the technical schools examinations.
The Vocational Training Opportunity Scheme (with 60 participants) has been operating in Tallaght and in Limerick since 1985, on a pilot basis. It is now being extended to ten additional centres providing places for 200 people in the main centres of unemployment.
It is planned to extend the scheme progressively, with further groups starting in January 1990. It is envisaged that over 600 places will be provided during 1990.