Brendan Smith
Question:51 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, there are to extend the Youthreach programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11805/00]
Written Answers. - Youthreach Programme.
Youthreach is targeted at young people aged 15-18 who left school with either minimal or no qualifications, generally those who attained less than five Ds at junior cycle level. Following the mid-term review of EU Structural Funds in 1998, a major expansion of places under Youthreach was agreed, increasing provision in FÁS and the vocational education committees from 4,525 to 7,162 places. The expansion was designed to address a critical shortfall in places and to increase opportunities for participants to progress to further education and training after the foundation stage of the programme. It was complemented by the provision for the first time of a guidance, counselling and psychological service measure and by child care provision within the VEC sector.
This expansion happened side by side with a dramatic improvement in the economy and a rapid fall in overall unemployment. As a result, providers are having difficulty in filling places and are faced with a seepage from Youthreach into employment as job opportunities increase. I am satisfied, based on the feedback from centres, that there is no need at present for an increase in Youthreach full-time places nationally.
However, it is intended that under the back to education initiative set out in the national development plan there will be an expansion of part-time education options under VTOS, Youthreach and PLC programmes, particularly aimed at those with less than upper secondary education. This will also enable existing full-time places to be re-deployed to part-time mode where appropriate. A major focus of this initiative will facilitate part-time and more flexible options within Youthreach so as to enable those who leave the programme mid-way to enter employment to continue their education on a part-time basis to gain qualifications. This will also enable education, employment and family responsibilities to be combined and help Youthreach to cater more effectively for lone parents.