Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2013
279. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason only 6% of participants on Springboard courses are under 25 years of age; if he is concerned at this low number; the actions he will take to increase this number in view of the high level of youth unemployment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45823/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraSpringboard is a specific initiative that strategically targets funding of free part time higher education courses for unemployed people in areas where there are identified labour market skills shortages. The Springboard programme is open to people of all age groups, and is specifically targeted at people with a previous history of employment or self employment that have lost jobs in sectors where employment levels will not return and who will need new qualifications and skills in order to re-enter employment. The age profile of people particpating in Springboard is reflects the age progfile of people who are unemployed. Approximately 10% of the more than 10,000 participants that enrolled on programmes under Springboard 2011 and 2012 were aged 25 years and under. An additional 6,000 places are currently being rolled out under Springboard 2013. The latest data available shows that approximately 12% of the participants that have enrolled on 2013 programmes to date are aged 25 and under.
