Thomas Pringle
Ceist:199. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of young persons under 25 years of age on the VTOS programme. [30147/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 2 June 2021
Ceisteanna (199, 200, 201)
Thomas Pringle
Ceist:200. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the funding allocation to the VTOS programme in 2021. [30148/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThomas Pringle
Ceist:201. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the average cost of supporting a place on the VTOS programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30149/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 199 to 201, inclusive, together.
The Vocational Training and Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) is designed to cater for people who are over 21 years of age, are unemployed and have been getting certain social welfare payments for at least 6 months. VTOS is a full time programme, generally of 2 years duration, that provides a range of courses to meet the education and training needs of unemployed people. It gives participants opportunities to improve their general level of education, gain certification, develop their skills and prepare for employment, self-employment and further education and training. The scheme is operated through the Education and Training Boards (ETBs).
In 2021 SOLAS allocated €66.2m to the ETBs for the provision of the programme to all learners, including those under the age of 25. There are currently 377 learners under the age of 25 enrolled in the programme.
The average annual cost of supporting a place on the VTOS programme is €15,672, including the cost of allowances paid in lieu of social welfare entitlements.
Question No. 200 answered with Question No. 199.
Question No. 201 answered with Question No. 199.