Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 September 2014
1261. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding funding for transportation for a person with a disability in order to attend a training course (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33359/14]
View answerA person's Social Welfare entitlement is determined by Department of Social Protection. SOLAS Training Allowances are aligned to the persons Social Welfare entitlements. This amount is paid for the duration of the course. In addition, a weekly travel allowance based on distance travelled to the course is paid to trainees where appropriate. These are maximum rates payable to Trainees and are subject to terms and conditions. The travel allowances go towards enabling each participant to continue with their course. SOLAS has made further enquiries with the relevant ETB which has advised that, in the context of the current economic climate and the resources available, unfortunately it is not possible to top up the travel rate beyond that already approved for the individual in question.
