Further Education and Training Programmes Funding

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 April 2013

Wednesday, 17 April 2013

Questions (62)

Thomas Pringle

Question:

62. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans for the development of the further education sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17582/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

SOLAS, the new education and training authority, is being established as a funding and oversight body under the aegis of my Department to ensure the provision of 21st century high-quality further education and training programmes to learners. The training function of FÁS will be transferred to the 16 Education and Training Boards that will replace the existing Vocational Education Committees. It is intended that the programmes to be delivered will be integrated, flexible, value-for-money and responsive to the needs of learners and the requirements of a changed and changing economy. It is also envisaged that there will be a mix of provision made by public sector providers and private contractors.

Details of the SOLAS Action Plan are available on my Department's website.