Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is important that there is now a forward planning unit in the Department to ensure we are looking towards the future to see where there are significant gaps in the need for the service and the lack of the service being provided. The Government has given the commitment in the programme for Government that where this gap might be in play, and where no providers are taking the opportunity to provide the service, the State will step in. Currently a mapping tool is being developed and utilised by the Department to ensure we have the most up-to-date information on that.

On ensuring the workforce is suitably upskilled, the nurturing skills programme is a very important source of support for workers. There has been a significant uptake, be it for professional development or ensuring that people can move to level 7 and level 8 qualifications, and the funding is provided for same.

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