FÁS Training Programmes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 April 2012

Thursday, 19 April 2012

Ceisteanna (85, 86)

Michelle Mulherin

Ceist:

82 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the operation of the FÁS local training initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19569/12]

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

83 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans for the future of the local training initiative programme including funding to be allocated in 2012; if there are any plans under consideration for the discontinuation of the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19611/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Ciarán Cannon)

I propose to take questions Nos. 82 and 83 together.

The Local Training Initiative (LTI) programme is a training intervention designed to offer significant additional supports to enable socially excluded persons to avail of FÁS training. The FÁS budget contains a sum of €33.406m for LTIs in 2012.

A national review of LTI programmes is being undertaken in 2012 to ensure the continuing effectiveness and efficiency of each programme in meeting the needs of the target profile; that the training is relevant to the labour market; that outcomes/targets for qualifications, placement and progression are being achieved and that resources are being effectively utilised.