Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 9 Mar 2000

Vol. 516 No. 2

Written Answers. - Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme.

Willie Penrose

Question:

20 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to review the qualification requirements for students on VTOS in relation to the nationwide training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7123/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The vocational training opportunities scheme has been designed for unemployed people who have had little or no education. No educational qualifications are required for admission to it.

However, in practice, an increasing proportion of participants seeking to join the programme have completed second-level education. To address this, a consultancy study has been commissioned by my Department on how best to attract to the programme a greater number of those for whom it was designed. The draft report is now being finalised. I also intend that, as part of the back to education initiative provided for in the national development plan, there will be an increasing focus on the provision of part-time options under VTOS at foundation level or level one or equivalent, aimed at those with minimal or no qualifications.