I propose to take Questions Nos. 237 to 239, inclusive, together.
These issues are operational matters for SOLAS. I have made enquires and I am informed that the final decision to cease funding of Drogheda Community Training Centre (CTC) was made by SOLAS in April 2014. This decision was taken following a review of learning outcomes and value for money. Funding for Drogheda CTC will cease as of 8 May 2015. As the Board of Management of Drogheda Community Training Centre is responsible for the overall governance of the centre, the issues regarding the centre have been regularly discussed with them and this includes formal correspondence in March 2013 in which SOLAS notified the Board of Management of their intention to consider the cessation of funding for the centre. Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) were advised of the difficulties relating to the centre as part of the transformation and amalgamation of SOLAS regional training into the Education and Training Boards.
I am also informed that training for early school leavers will be reviewed with a view to enhancing provision in the Drogheda area. Early school leavers who would normally have been referred to Drogheda CTC will receive priority referral to other suitable education or training programmes in the Drogheda area provided by or supported by LMETB. This includes programmes that will be transferred to the ETB by virtue of the transfer of the FÁS North East Training Centre on 1 July 2014. Current learners will be supported to complete existing programmes. Over the next 12 months SOLAS Training North East, in conjunction with Louth Meath Education and Training Board, LMETB, will engage with all relevant stakeholders with a view to further enhancing provision for early school leavers in the Drogheda area.