Vol. 461 No. 2
99 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Education whether a review of the staffing of Youthreach Programmes has been undertaken; if so, the outcome of that review; the plans, if any, there are to provide permanent employment for co-ordinators and resource staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2658/96]
The review in question began in late December 1995 and a report from the consultants is expected by the end of March 1996. The report will make recommendations on the duties, staffing structure, qualifications profile and status of employment of staff on Youthreach, having regard to the needs of the client group, the objectives of the programme and the provision in comparable services.
100 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Education the total allocation available for youth services in 1996; and the percentage increase this represents on the 1995 allocation. [2659/96]
101 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Education when the 1996 allocation will be notified to voluntary youth organisations. [2660/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 100 and 101 together.
Grant-in-aid funding for general expenses of youth and sports organisations amounts to £20.681 million in 1996. This represents an increase of 4 per cent approximately on the 1995 funding.
The allocation of this amount between the youth and sports sectors is at present under consideration in the light of competing needs and priorities.
Initial examination of the applications to my Department for grant-aid under the youth services budget is under way. Further consideration will be necessary in the context of overall youth sector funding when finalised. Decisions will be conveyed to the individual youth organisations and other agencies as soon as possible.
102 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Education the new initiatives, if any, that were undertaken in 1995 within the youth services allocation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2661/96]
Four new initiatives have been undertaken by my Department in 1995 under the grant scheme for special projects to assist disadvantaged youth. These new projects are providing youth work services for disadvantaged young people in the following areas: Bishopstown, Cork city; Ballyphehane, Cork city; Listowel/North Kerry; and Dolphin House, Rialto, Dublin City. There were no new initiatives in 1995 under the youth service grant scheme.
