Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 June 2021
202. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of young persons under 25 years on SOLAS training programmes for the unemployed. [30150/21]
View answer203. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the funding allocation to young persons under 25 years on SOLAS training programmes for the unemployed in 2021. [30151/21]
View answer204. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the average cost of supporting a place on the SOLAS training programme for the unemployed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30152/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 202 to 204, inclusive, together.
There is a variety of full-time training programmes available for persons under 25 years including programmes such as Blended Training, Bridging and Foundation Training, Community Training Centres, Local Training Initiatives, Specialist Training Providers, Specific Skills Training and Traineeship Training. A total of €167.28m has been allocated to these programmes in 2021. This covers the cost for all participants, including those under the age of 25.
The number of persons under the age of 25 currently enrolled in these programmes is 3,664 learners. It should be noted that this is in addition to early school leaver programmes, post leaving cert courses and other programmes not specifically aimed at unemployed people.
The average cost of supporting a place on programmes aimed at training unemployed people amounts to €10,750, inclusive of training allowances paid in lieu of social welfare entitlements. There are significant variances in cost depending on duration and a number of other factors.
