Frank Fahey (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 110 and 182 together.

I am aware of the recent report by the National Disability Authority, entitled Towards Best Practice in the Provision of Further Education, Employment and Training Services for People with Disabilities. The report, which was received in my Department on 14 January, contains a number of conclusions and recommendations which have policy implications for a number of Departments, including the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in the area of employment and training services for people with disabilities.

Policy and programme provision in this regard are subject to ongoing monitoring and review by my Department with a view to providing the most efficient services possible for people with disabilities. The conclusions and recommendations contained in the report will assist and inform my Department's future policy development, planning and monitoring of employment and training service provision to people with disabilities. FÁS remains committed to prioritising, within available resources, the training and employment supports for people with disabilities with a view to providing the maximum potential for employment in the open labour market.

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