Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 June 2005
379 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are no confirmed places for young adults with learning disabilities leaving the educational environment and moving to vocational training in Dublin as a result of restrictions on funding; the steps he intends to take to address this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19682/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraPersons with a learning disability have access to a wide range of training programmes with FÁS under the aegis of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Initially, persons are assessed by FÁS employment services on their level of learning disability and are advised of the best opportunities available to them at that time. There are a number of training course options available through, for example: FÁS funded programmes with the national learning network, formerly the NTDI; FÁS community training centres; FÁS training centres; and FÁS community employment projects, subject to certain eligibility criteria.
FÁS, through its network of 16 community training centres in Dublin, provides an initial response to young persons in transition from school to work. This includes the services of the psychological section of Dublin city and county VECs which provides support for persons with a learning disability. Such persons also have access to the full range of FÁS training courses available through its network of training centres throughout the country. There are no restrictions in place because of funding issues.
