Gay Mitchell (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 35: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether there is value in providing subsidies towards English language instruction for foreign nationals working here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31917/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Neither my Department nor the bodies under its aegis have primary responsibility for the delivery of English language instruction. My Department does not have any plans to provide subsidies towards English language instruction.

However, as part of its responsibilities for training, FÁS is currently in the process of developing training materials to assist migrant workers who have language difficulties. This material will be in the form of two generic courses of ninety hours in duration, pitched at two levels. FÁS is also in the process of developing English Language courses for three specific work disciplines (Construction, Security and Hospitality). All of these courses, if completed satisfactorily, will lead to a FETAC Special Purpose Award.

Through the FÁS 'Skills for Work programme', which aims to provide for the basic education needs of workers in low skilled employment, a technical English programme (Steps to Safety) is provided in order to improve communication, especially regarding the safety of workers in the workplace.High value manufacturing, in particular, is a key driver of innovation and technological advance. It increases opportunities for attracting and imbedding R&D activities, collaboration with the higher education sector and stimulating networks. In this context the enterprise development agencies will continue to pursue strategies to foster enterprise creation and assist existing companies with the transition to higher value, knowledge based activities that will provide long term sustainable employment for the future.