Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)

I accept the PLC programme is a very important one, in particular in the current context and having regard to our economic situation. As a result of that, we were able to increase the number of PLC places by 1,500 last year. As I said, the work of the PLC colleges and the additional enrolments are very much appreciated by my Department.

I am not in a position to say what the position will be next year in regard to PLC provision other than to say a Cabinet committee on economic renewal is constantly looking at the issue of employment activation, further education, FÁS provision, higher education provision and so forth. From my point of view, as Minister of State with responsibility for adult education and continuing education, the PLC programme is vitally important at this time of the economic cycle.

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