Monica Barnes
Question:81 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in filling the additional Youthreach places which have been approved. [14969/98]
Written Answers. - Youthreach Programme.
At the end of 1997 there were 4,525 approved places on the Youthreach and Traveller Training Programmes in FÁS and VEC centres. A further expansion of 2,240 places in 1998 is under way, which will bring the total to 6,765.
The 2,240 extra places have been approved and will become operational later this year. A lead-in period is required for acquiring, refurbishing and equipping of premises, and recruitment of staff. This process is currently being undertaken by FÁS and the vocational education committees.