Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 October 2020
100. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if the 10,000 upskilling and reskilling places, 4,000 apprenticeships, 5,000 higher education places and the 1,500 Springboard places are separate from and in addition to the 35,000 further and higher education places announced as part of the July stimulus package; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31360/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis is a fairly straightforward question. It is just seeking clarification on the 10,000 upskilling and reskilling places, the 4,000 apprenticeships, the 5,000 higher education places and the 1,500 Springboard places. Are they in addition to the 35,000 further and higher education places announced as part of the July stimulus package?
They are in addition. The intention is that the total number, between the July stimulus and the budget, should be 50,000.
I thank the Minister for that. We just needed clarification because we are trying to get an exact picture of how many places are available and the opportunities that exist. It is important that we communicate these and ensure everybody is included. We must remove any barriers. Sometimes the criteria for some of the upskilling jobs are such that they do not fit the candidates. Particularly in these circumstances, we need to remove all barriers to opportunities so people will not be held back by stringent criteria.
I agree with the Deputy.
