Mary Flaherty
Ceist:73 Miss Flaherty asked the Minister for Labour if he will outline the progress which has been made on his proposal to allow women more access to training schemes.
Written Answers. - Participation of Women in Training Schemes.
My Department are continuing their examination of the means of implementing the recommendation in the Programme for Economic and Social Progress that the live register requirements in the case of women applicants should be relaxed to facilitate women who wish to return to the workforce. It is a complex matter involving not just my own Department but also other Departments operating schemes for which live register criteria are laid down.
I am satisfied that FÁS are making significant progress in the area of training for women who are eligible to participate under current eligibility requirements. One of the aims of its positive action programme in favour of women is to encourage them to take up the full range of training opportunities available, particularly in non-traditional areas. Their participation has increased from 34 per cent in 1986 to 41.4 per cent of all those completing training in 1990 and it is hoped to make further progress during 1991-92. CERT also have a return to work course which is aimed at mature people interested in returning to work.