Michael Ring
Question:96 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if the childcare allowance for VTOS course participants will be paid, plus arrears, before Christmas in view of the hardship caused in this matter. [31812/03]
Written Answers. - Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme.
My Department provides funding to Vocational Education Committees to assist towards the childcare expenses of participants in VTOS, Youthreach and Senior Traveller Training programmes.
A number of vocational education committees, including County Mayo VEC, requested special assistance by way of additional funding in respect of 2003 for their childcare services. Special additional payments were issued to these vocational education committees recently.
The disbursement of childcare funds is a matter for individual vocational education committees. I understand that County Mayo VEC is currently in the process of issuing grants in respect of childcare costs to participants in VTOS, Youthreach and Senior Traveller Training programmes.