Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 11 Nov 1993

Vol. 435 No. 8

Ceisteanna—Questions Written Answers. - Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme.

John Bruton

Question:

14 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education the number of people in County Meath who have availed of the vocational training opportunities scheme; and the benefits and method of applying for this scheme to unemployed people in County Meath.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

Twenty VTO places were allocated to the County Meath vocational education committee in the autumn of 1992. This was increased to 40 in the autumn of 1993. A total of 41 people have participated in the programme to date.

The VTOS provides important education led programmes for the long term unemployed in County Meath, increasing their employability and enabling them to progress to further education and training opportunities. The scheme is of considerable social and economic benefit to the participants and to their families and communities.

Courses under the scheme are provided free of charge to the participants, including books, material and examination fees. The participants continue to get the allowance or their equivalent to which they would be entitled if they did not join the VTOS. They may also get travel and meal allowances depending on circumstances.

As elsewhere, the scheme in County Meath is operated by the vocational education committee whose address is the County Office, Navan, telephone [phone] or 21881. Applications to participate in the scheme should be made to the vocational education committee which works in close co-operation with the employment exchanges/offices in its area. The main recruitment time is in September/October and the 40 places available to the vocational education committee for 1993-94 are filled at this stage. There are some applicants on a waiting list. Where possible vacancies that arise will be filled from this list.

The VTO is open to people who have been in receipt of unemployment payments, signing for credits or in receipt of lone parents allowances for at least 12 months. The scheme is open to disabled persons and spouses also in certain circumstances.