Colm Burke (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for his comprehensive reply. As I understand it, he is suggesting that people can go outside the State-funded training organisations, such as the VEC, for courses, which I very much welcome. In regard to the application that was made for the €37.5 million, what is the total number of those who have completed training or are in training? What is the likely level of funding we will have to refund and does this take into account the current figures? The other issue I raised concerned whether there is a need for further highlighting of the programme in order that the maximum number of people can get on board.

The programme is related to people who were employed in companies. What about the self-employed who no longer have work, such as sub-contractors? Can they come under the programme?