Vol. 530 No. 3
261 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Education and Science his proposals to increase the level of funding for second chance education and training for the unemployed and socially excluded adults through VTOS courses; and if his attention has been drawn to the present campaign by tutors to seek extra finance in this regard. [3523/01]
280 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans he has to increase the capitation allowance for VTOS participants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3709/01]
281 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will increase the VTOS grant of £15,000 per annum for each group of 20 participants which was allocated in 1989 and which has not been increased since; and if he would consider doubling the amount. [3710/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 261, 280 and 281 together.
The vocational training opportunities scheme, VTOS, was established in 1989 with the objective of providing second chance education and training opportunities for unemployed adults over the age of 21 and in receipt of an unemployment payment for at least six months. Participants in VTOS cease to receive unemployment payments and are paid training allowances of at least an equivalent amount. They are also paid travelling expenses, where they reside three miles from the centre, and a meal allowance in line with those payable by FÁS.
About 5,000 people participate annually in the vocational training opportunities scheme at an annual cost to the State of £32 million, which is partially funded by the European Social Fund.
The vocational training opportunities scheme has proved successful in opening up learning and progression opportunities for people who have been marginalised by unemployment. For each of the years 1994 to 2000, the percentage of participants who completed the programme and who progressed to work or further education was 70% or more.
The £15,000 referred to in the questions represents the amount of grant paid by my Department to vocational education committees in respect of each group on 20 students. It covers expenditure on such items as light, heat, rent, books and equipment and other general expenses. The rate of this grant has remained unchanged since 1989.
