Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 251: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her views on creating 50 more places for a group (details supplied) in the Coolock area of Dublin; and if the maximum support and assistance will be given with its excellent work. [12767/06]

Síle de Valera (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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Youthreach is a programme of education and training targeted at unqualified early school leavers in the 15 to 20 age group. The programme is an integrated response by my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to address the needs of young people who leave school early with minimal or no qualifications. It is designed to meet the particular educational and training needs of the target group and was initiated in 1989. The programme is delivered in out-of-school centres run by the VECs and by FÁS through their community training workshops, CTWs.

My Department has criteria governing the recognition and funding of Youthreach centres. A district approach is implemented in the allocation of places. It involves consultation with VECs, FÁS, area-based partnerships and other statutory-voluntary training providers in the vicinity on local needs. The district approach ensures, as far as possible, complementarity with the activities of the different agencies and avoids duplication. My Department has received no proposal from City of Dublin VEC to provide any additional Youthreach places in the above area.