Vol. 491 No. 1
118 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science the assistance, if any, he will give to the elderly and those experiencing educational disadvantage in relation to rural exclusion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11487/98]
A number of adult education schemes operated by my Department to assist disadvantaged people are open to adult urban and rural participants of all ages. Such schemes include the vocational training opportunities scheme and the schemes for adult literacy and community education and special initiatives for disadvantaged adults.
In addition, my Department provides financial assistance, under its women's education initiative, for two projects targeted at disadvantaged rural women. One is sponsored by the National Traveller Women's Forum. Its aim is to identify barriers and gaps for traveller women in relation to education and development processes. The other project is operated by the South West Kerry Women's Association. It aims to address gaps in provision for educationally disadvantaged women in that area.
