Vol. 497 No. 5
378 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will outline the differences, if any, between the terms and conditions or the benefits of the vocational training opportunities scheme as compared to the back to edu cation allowance scheme. [25803/98]
The vocational training opportunities scheme of my Department and the back to education allowance scheme BTEA, of the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs are both educational opportunities schemes for unemployed people.
The rates of allowance payable to VTOS participants were equalised recently with those paid to participants in the BTEA scheme. The only differences at this stage are: (i) the study options under the BTEA scheme, unlike the VTOS, include third level courses; (ii) an annual cost of education allowance of £150 per annum is paid to students on the BTEA scheme. This allowance is not paid to participants on VTOS programmes, but VTOS students are provided with all books and materials free of charge, and travel and meal allowances are also payable.
379 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the type of part-time and full-time approved courses for which a place on the vocational training opportunities scheme can be obtained at second level and in further education; the type of courses which are excluded; and if places are rationed. [25804/98]
Courses provided under the vocational training opportunities scheme, VTOS, are full-time and may be of up to two years' duration. These programmes are managed and delivered locally by the vocational education committees. The courses provided under the scheme focus on the development of employment-related skills, including technological and business skills, and include modules on socio-personal development.
The programme is provided by the vocational education committees and offers a range of vocational options, from foundation level to level 2 post-leaving certificate. Participants may also pursue subjects in the junior or leaving certificate or acquire a portfolio of qualifications in line with their needs and interests. They may follow programmes in discrete VTOS class groups or as individuals dispersed on a range of other programmes. The 10 per cent quota which limited participation of lone parents, those with disabilities and dependent spouses on VTOS has recently been removed.
Currently 5,000 VTOS places are available nationwide. The Green Paper, Adult Education in an Era of Lifelong Learning, proposes the introduction of part-time further education options on VTOS and other programmes.
