Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 July 2022
490. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the further education and training services available to young persons in Newcastle, Rathcoole, Saggart, Citywest and Brittas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36026/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraDublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB) offers a wide range of Further Education and Training (FET) options for young people in south west Dublin via its 16 FET centres in Tallaght, Clondalkin, Greenhills and Lucan and Voluntary Youth Groups.
Tallaght Training Centre offers a wide range of courses onsite or in a variety of accessible training locations including craft apprenticeships, traineeships, and specific skills training. Youthreach programmes are available in Priory, Tallaght, Clondalkin, and Lucan, as well as a range of adult education programmes across Priorsgate, Tallaght, Clondalkin and Mont Seskin Community Centres. PLC programmes are offered in Collinstown Park Community College, Deansrath Community College, St Kevin’s Community College and Greenhills Community College.
Within the youth service settings, it supports Newcastle Foróige, Spirit Newcastle Foróige Club, Foróige Rathcoole Youth Club and the 73rd Rathcoole Scout Club. It also supports a range of BTEI and LTAI programmes.
Of the approximate 5,000 beneficiaries in the above centres (excluding Voluntary Youth Groups) in 2021, 20% were aged between 15-24.
DDLETB has made applications to SOLAS under the Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Fund and the FET College of the Future Major Projects Fund for projects that would upgrade and expand capacity including for those who are living in the catchment areas of Rathcoole, Newcastle, Saggart and Brittas. The applications to these Funds are currently undergoing assessment.
DDLETB have also submitted an application to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth (DCEDIY) for the establishment of a new UBU (Your Place Your Space) Youth Service in 2021. Its application contains details of a Southwest Orbital route, which includes Adamstown, Clonburris, Citywest as well as Rathcoole, Newcastle and Saggart. It is hoped that new services will be developed throughout 2022 and 2023.
