Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Apr 2000

Vol. 517 No. 4

Written Answers. - Training Programmes.

Chris Flood

Question:

145 Mr. Flood asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will permit training programmes, such as that provided by Tallaght Community Training Workshop, to enrol asylum seekers in the 15 to 25 years age group who are resident in the country for less than 12 months; if those who are not already in receipt of supplementary benefit will be paid the appropriate training allowance with the objectives of facilitating their integration into society and the acquiring of skills which will enable them to take up employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10091/00]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

Persons whose application for asylum has not been processed are, in general, not entitled to seek work or avail of training programmes and associated allowances funded through FÁS. The Government has agreed, as an exceptional measure, that people who made their applications for asylum on or before 26 July 1999 and who have been in the country for more than 12 months are entitled to seek work. FÁS has set up a special unit in the Dublin area to help such asylum seekers avail of current opportunities.

Asylum seekers whose application has been processed and who are accorded refugee status or leave to remain have access to the full range of State funded training and employment supports.