Youth Services

Wednesday, 2 June 2021

Questions (193, 194, 195)

Thomas Pringle

Question:

193. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of young persons under 25 years of age on the Youthreach programme. [30141/21]

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Thomas Pringle

Question:

194. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the funding allocation to Youthreach in 2021. [30142/21]

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Thomas Pringle

Question:

195. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the average cost of supporting a place on the Youthreach programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30143/21]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 to 195, inclusive, together.

The Youthreach programme is a national programme of education and training for early school leavers. The programme is delivered in two settings, Youthreach Centres and Community Training Centres (CTCs). The information below is in respect of the programme delivered in Youthreach Centres.

The programme provides two years integrated education, training and work experience for unemployed early school leavers without any qualifications or vocational training, who are between 16 and 21 years of age. The programme offers participants the opportunity to identify and pursue viable options within adult life, provides them with opportunities to acquire certification, and includes a work experience element to prepare participants for progression on to further study, training or working life.

€71m funding was allocated by SOLAS to the ETBs for the delivery of the programme in 2021. On 1 March, there were 2,477 learners enrolled in the programme. Based on full year data, the average annual cost of supporting a place on the Youthreach programme is €17,199, including the cost of allowances paid to participants.

Question No. 194 answered with Question No. 193.

Question No. 195 answered with Question No. 193.