Referrals to training supports by my Department are focused on those in receipt of qualifying welfare payments.
Unemployed persons who are not in receipt of welfare support have access to Solas training supports. As you know Solas is a statutory agency that operates under the aegis of the Department of Education and Skills, which has responsibility the management, co-ordination and supporting the delivery of Further Education and Training by the Education and Training Boards. I would suggest that any such person is advised to inquire with their local Education Training Board to assess what supports may be available to them.
It is also open to any unemployed person to contact my Department’s Public Employment Service at their local Intreo centre to discuss the options that may be available to them.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.