Vol. 495 No. 7
128 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans, if any, she has in place for intensive guidance, counselling and assistance in the preparation of a curriculum vitae; her views on whether applicants have a chance of obtaining a place on a specific skills training or education course; the number from Sligo and Leitrim who will benefit; and the additional funds targeted towards this programme. [21463/98]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the employment action plan, the main element of which, a systematic activation programme for 18 to 25 year olds approaching six months on the live register, came into effect on 1 September 1998.
Under the employment action plan those persons are given an intensive guidance intervention with FÁS to assess the most suitable outcome for them in terms of a job, employment or training scheme or other employability support. Where appropriate, this would include assistance with the preparation of a curriculum vitae.
The overall commitment of resources to the employment action plan is in excess of £1,000 million this year. The FÁS placement service has been significantly enhanced with a view to delivering satisfactory outcomes for the individuals concerned, and 7,500 places on employment and training schemes ring-fenced to accommodate the activation programme. The numbers of persons dealt with under the plan at regional or sub-regional level is an operational matter for FÁS.
