Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 February 2024
200. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the independent evaluation of the specialist training provision carried out by SOLAS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9651/24]
View answerSOLAS is undertaking an independent evaluation of the ‘Specialist Training Provision for People with Disabilities’ programme. Under this programme, the 16 Education and Training Boards contract Specialist Training Providers (STPs) to offer vocational training programmes, in specific settings, for persons with disabilities. The basis for this provision is that some people with disabilities have needs that may not be catered for through non-specialist vocational training provision. STPs provide intensive, tailored training and supports. Specialist Training Provision aims to meet additional needs relating to access and training duration and support.
The purpose of the evaluation is to generate evidence-based conclusions and propose recommendations about the quality, effectiveness, on-going relevance and overall value of vocational training that is currently delivered by STPs and the integration of this training within the wider further education and training provision by ETBs.
While there has been some delays, SOLAS expects the evaluation to conclude in the coming weeks.
