Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Mar 1991

Vol. 406 No. 4

Written Answers. - Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme.

Brian Cowen

Question:

32 Mr. Cowen asked the Minister for Education when she expects discussions, currently taking place between her Department and the Department of Social Welfare, regarding the question of allowing people, who are in receipt of other categories of social welfare payments other than unemployment assistance, to be deemed eligible to participate in the vocational training opportunities scheme, to conclude; and, in view of her continued commitment to adult education, if she will examine the case of a person (details supplied) in County Offaly, who is in receipt of disabled person's maintenance allowance, and is anxious to study for the leaving certificate examination under the scheme.

Minister for Education (Mrs. O'Rourke)

The vocational training opportunities scheme was designed specifically for the long term unemployed. It was on this basis that it was presented and approved for support under the European Social Fund.

It would not be possible, therefore, to extend this particular scheme to other categories of social welfare recipients such as those in receipt of disabled person's allowances within the current term of the scheme, i.e. up to end 1993.

However, I am deeply conscious of the need for appropriate training for all categories of social welfare recipients. It is in this context that discussions have been taking place between my Department and the Department of Social Welfare. Such discussions, including also the Departments of Labour and Health, will continue.

The particular case referred to by the Deputy has not come before my Department for consideration. When the necessary details have been received I will have the matter examined to see what arrangements can be made in this particular case.