Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 28 Sep 1995

Vol. 456 No. 2

Written Answers. - VTOS Places.

Micheál Martin

Ceist:

20 Mr. Martin asked the Minister for Education the reasons, if any, she stated in correspondence to the chief executive officer of each vocational education committee that it was necessary to work on the reduction in the number of places on vocational training opportunity schemes in 1996 on a confidential basis; and the reason vocational education committees have not yet been notified of the exact number of places available to them on vocational training opportunity schemes this year. [13611/95]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The letter sent to vocational educational committees on a confidential basis was of a preliminary nature inviting them to contact the Department to discuss the position in their particular circumstances. It was considered best to clarify the position in this way so as to avoid unnecessary concerns among those involved. The vocational education committees have been given an indication of what their allocations are likely to be for 1996. Contacts between my Department and vocational education committees are continuing. As soon as the position is finally clarified, my Department will formally confirm to the vocational education committees the number of places that will likely be available to them.