Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Do our guests have feedback on the 20 year old training allowance which was removed and about which we have all been contacted? While it was not a large amount, it meant a lot to every person who received it. I would be interested in hearing if people have feedback on whether it has impacted on the number of people availingo f further education and training opportunities. In the context of a five year strategy to develop educational skills, the flexibility of the back to education allowance is important. Those who have reached a certain level on the qualifications framework but want to retrain at a lower level are unable to do so because they are blocked from accessing allowances and assistance. There are many who have trained in something which has not worked out for them or which is no longer a marketable qualification and they are blocked off and unable to participate in something which would get them back into the workforce. There should be flexibility in particular cases where people should be engaged with and supported. This is very important in achieving the goals set out. Will our guests comment on the importance of this issue?