Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 1 Jul 2003

Vol. 570 No. 2

Written Answers. - Departmental Programmes.

Jack Wall

Question:

159 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress to date in regard to the implementation of the RAPID programme for Athy; the amount of moneys made available for the implementation of the programme from her Department for Athy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18534/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Fahey):

My Department's contribution to the RAPID programme has been delivered mainly through the prioritisation of existing FÁS programmes from the annual FÁS budget. Support provided by FÁS has been through FÁS community services where the community employment programme is the major element – RAPID areas continue to be prioritised – FÁS employment services, the local employment service and FÁS training services.

FÁS funding commitments for Athy RAPID area for 2003 are set out below:

Employment Programmes	No. of places approved
Community Employment	50
€660,000
Job Initiative	19
€343,000
Training Programmes	No. of places approved
Athy Technology Programme	10
€104,000
Athy Travellers programme	18
€188,000
Carers Provider Training€225,000 (est.)	20 over a 45 week period due to commence in September 2003
Athy Jobs Club	45
€73,000

In addition, FÁS will contribute €25,000 towards the appointment of a development executive who will report to Athy forum, the umbrella body for local development and employment creation in Athy.