Vol. 503 No. 4
82 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number, location and date of establishment of community training workshops; her views on their role and effectiveness; the plans, if any, she has regarding their future role; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10396/99]
Community training workshops, CTWs, are voluntary bodies which provide community based training opportunities to socially or educationally disadvantaged young people. The workshops are under the control of management committees drawn from different sectors of the community.
I have no direct function in the operation of the workshops. However, FÁS provides funding for the payment of staff wages, and for payment of allowances to trainees. I have asked FÁS to supply the statistical information requested directly to the Deputy, in so far as it relates to its involvement with the CTWs.
Regarding the role of CTWs, the provision of training for socially or educationally disadvantaged young people is a key element in the Government's employment strategy. The work of the CTWs effectively complements this strategy. In recognition of this, additional funding has been provided in my Department's Estimate for 1999 for the upgrading of CTWs in disadvantaged urban areas. Bearing in mind their voluntary status, I hope the CTWs will continue to play a significant role in tackling educational disadvantage and social exclusion.
