Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 September 2020
163. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if sole traders registered with the Revenue Commissioners can be made eligible for free Springboard courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25772/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraSpringboard+ which incorporates the ICT skills conversion programme, is a specific initiative which provides free and 90% subsidised part-time and full-time courses aimed at addressing the current skills needs of employers and supporting jobseekers to return to employment.
Employed or self-employed people are eligible to undertake NFQ Level 6 courses free of charge, and NFQ level 7-9 courses on payment of 10% of the course cost.
Sole traders registered with the Revenue Commissioners fall under the category of self-employed.
Evidence of their status may be demonstrated through providing revenue documentation, or other evidence of their self-employed status, which could include evidence to that effect from their accountant.
Further information on Springboard+ 2020 including entry requirements and eligibility criteria are available on the dedicated information and applications website: www.springboardcourses.ie
