Richard Bruton
Question:190 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of people on Youthreach in June 1998, December 1997, June 1997 and December 1996. [25291/98]
Written Answers - Youthreach Programme.
The information requested by the Deputy is as follows: December 1996, 4629; June 1997, 4286; December 1997, 4322; June 1998, 4426.
This data reflect enrolment on Youthreach in FÁS and VEC Youthreach centres and in the network of senior traveller training centres, which also provides an out-of-school programme for unqualified early school leavers.
The overall number of places approved for these programmes has been increased and the expansion to 6,765 places by the end of the year is under way. There is a considerable lead-in time in filling new places due to the time needed for acquiring and refurbishing premises, and recruitment of staff and trainees. A new guidance counselling and psychological service measure, and a child care measure have been introduced this year to support the programmes.