Further Education and Training Programmes Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2013

Tuesday, 8 October 2013

Questions (97)

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

97. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress that has been made in the establishment of SOLAS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41964/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

The establishment of SOLAS is part of a wider reform programme that has included the rationalisation of 33 VECS into 16 Education and Training Boards. The Further Education and Training Act, 2013 was enacted in July this year. The Act provides for the establishment of SOLAS, the dissolution of FAS and the transfer over time of FÁS training division to the Education and Training Boards recently established following the commencement of the Education and Training Boards Act, 2013.

A range of administrative processes is underway to facilitate commencement of the Further Education and Training Act and the establishment of SOLAS. In addition, the Chairman designate will meet the Joint Committee on Education and Social Protection tomorrow. SOLAS will be formally established in the coming weeks. In the interim, the Education and Training Boards and FÁS will continue to provide education and training services.