Vol. 475 No. 7
135 Ms Keogh asked the Minister for Education the reason there is no programme available for those over 28 years of age in the Leonardo programme; the age limits, if any, on vocational training exchange programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5638/97]
The Leonardo Da Vinci programme contributes to the implementation of a vocational training policy at European Union level. Its objective is to promote new approaches in initial and continuing vocational training policies and practices.
Placement and exchange opportunities are a core element of mobility and a European dimension in training programmes and work-based learning. They also support transnational co-operation through the introduction of individual trainees and trainers to the different approaches to training and work in other countries.
The mobility opportunities under Strand I of the programme for young people in initial vocational education and training, young workers and job seekers are limited to persons under 28 years of age. This is in accordance with the arrangements which operated in respect of this target group under the former PETRA programme which was, effectively, subsumed into the Leonardo Da Vinci programme. However, teachers and trainers of all ages can avail of the mobility opportunities.
Strand II of the programme which focuses on mobility in a university-enterprise context is a continuation of an aspect of the COSMETT programme which had as target groups undergraduates, graduates and post-graduates. There is no age limit for Strand II.
Within the context of the pilot project aspect of the programme, promoters can build in transnational exchange for trainers of any age but they cannot avail of bursaries directly.
