Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 March 2007

Tuesday, 27 March 2007

Ceisteanna (455)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

513 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when the VTOS scheme will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11781/07]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science (Mr. Haughey)

The Vocational Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) provides full-time second chance education and training opportunities for unemployed adults who are at least 21 years of age and in receipt of specified social welfare payments for at least six months. The scheme is funded by my Department and operated through the 33 Vocational Educational Committees (VECs).

The Vocational Education Committee (VEC) in question has advised that the person named, is not currently in receipt of a qualifying payment from the Department of Social & Family Affairs and therefore is not eligible to participate in the programme. However, the VEC was able to offer the person in question an alternative education option under the Back to Education Initiative (BTEI).