Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)

I will deal with two issues the Deputy raised, one of which is funding to community education, Youthreach and CTCs. I did say there is no specific additional funding in 2026. SOLAS has advised that the investment in community education increased by 55% from 2018 to 2024, from nearly €11 million to over €70 million now. Therefore, we can see that the funding is increasing. We also introduced the reach fund in 2020. The Deputy knows what that fund does and the importance of it. We are pleased to announce that over €4.5 million from that fund will benefit more than 700 community education providers. SOLAS has advised that in regard to Youthreach, the allocation has increased from €74 million in 2024 to €76 million this year.

Finally, in regard to public sector pay grades and pay and conditions, the community training centres were established in 1977. They are grant aided by the education and training boards. In response to the Deputy's query, the Department has no role in the employment of CTC staff, including terms and conditions for the pay. As the Deputy knows, because she is a member of the board, it is the responsibility of the independent board of directors.

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