Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 422: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the costs associated with increasing the number of places on vocational training opportunities scheme by 1,000; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30704/10]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) is a full time second chance education and training initiative, providing courses between Levels 3-6 on the National Framework of Qualifications to unemployed people over 21 years of age. The scheme is delivered and managed locally by Vocational Educational Committees (VECs). Tuition, stationery and books are provided free of charge. VTOS participants can access the Adult Education Guidance Initiative and child care supports.

There are 5,000 places available nationally every year. The total funding provided by my Department to VECs in 2009 for the VTOS programme was just over €77 million. This includes the cost of participant allowances, staff costs and other non-pay costs, including the current level of rents. On this basis, 1,000 additional VTOS places would cost just over €15.4 million per annum. There may also be additional costs associated with provision of accommodation to cater for additional VTOS places.