Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy brings these matters to my attention today and I do know the reference. Practical arrangements are being made to ensure these services are being provided and that reorganisation can take place in due course. On advice, the Government made an order on 27 April to transfer all functions in respect of FÁS to the Minister for Education and Skills with effect from 1 May and since 2 May to the Minister for Education and Skills. The purpose of this was to give the training and skills functions of FÁS to the Minister for Education and Skills. Primary legislation will be required for the onward transfer of functions in respect of the employment services and community services programmes of FÁS to the Minister for Social Protection. The issues are being dealt with on the ground. As regards the question of the order and whether it was laid before the Oireachtas, I will check out the position.

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