Vol. 520 No. 5
93 Mr. D'Arcy asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to increase the participation of long-term unemployed people in adult education courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16195/00]
The Green Paper Adult Education in an Era of Lifelong Learning identified a critical need to concentrate expansion of the adult education system on the needs of those who are most marginalised, with minimal or no educational qualifications and to increase the range of options within the system. The vocational training opportunities scheme caters especially for unemployed people who wish to improve their education for the purpose of securing employment. A study has been commissioned by my Department on how that scheme may be made more effective in reaching long-term unemployed people. A draft report has been completed and is being examined with a view to finalisation.
Within the national development plan, a sum of £1.027 billion has been earmarked for a programme to cater for existing and expansion needs. The back to education initiative involves the merging and continuation of existing levels of provision under Youthreach, senior traveller training centres, the vocational training opportunities scheme and post-leaving certificate courses, allied to new forms of provision of the courses. It will provide opportunities to return to learning for adults and provide a re-entry route for those who wish to upgrade their skills in line with emerging needs. The back to education initiative will emphasise flexibility of provision for participants to engage in whatever level of provision is appropriate to their needs, and to mix and match modular options and subject choices in accordance with their interests. Part-time options will be offered in the mornings, night-time, weekends, and sandwich or summer courses in line with local needs. Tuition will be free of charge to unemployed people.
