Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 22 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 2

Written Answers. - Community Employment Schemes.

Gerry Reynolds

Question:

61 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will rectify an anomaly in the FÁS training course system which does not allow women, whose spouses' earnings are over guidelines set down by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs for unemployment assistance, to obtain places on FÁS training courses as they are deemed ineligible when not in receipt of social welfare benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8542/01]

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

Women do not have to be in receipt of social welfare benefits to avail of FÁS training courses. However, the number of places available on any training course is limited in each FÁS region and, having regard to the unemployment level in each region, FÁS financial resources, the commitments under the employment action plan to engage with people on the live register, there may be delays in women accessing courses in some areas.

Because of the need to promote and encourage more women to return to the workforce, I understand that FÁS is examining the possibility of enhancing its provision in such cases.