Written answers

Tuesday, 31 May 2011

Department of Education and Skills

European Globalisation Fund

9:00 pm

Photo of Catherine MurphyCatherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 123: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills when drawing down the European Globalisation Fund in the provision of up-skilling for former SR Technics workers, if when seeking that funding it was anticipated that it would be sufficient to complete the courses; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that changing at this stage would terminate prior to receiving accreditation for many of those who are participating in the course; if alternative funding is being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13238/11]

Photo of Terence FlanaganTerence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 124: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the European Globalisation Fund in respect of persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13241/11]

Photo of Ciarán CannonCiarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 123 and 124 together.

Third level programmes were included in the application for EGF funding for the former workers at SR Technics in recognition of the potential such longer term interventions have in equipping participants with specialised and comprehensive skills sets and qualifications which can significantly assist them to re-enter the labour market. While the duration of such programmes in most cases exceeds the maximum EGF programme period of 2 years, securing EU co-funding to engage redundant workers onto a path of long term learning and upskilling against the backdrop of considerable national budgetary constraints, was considered to have significant benefit towards contributing to the development, education and future employment prospects of the individuals concerned.

The co-funding of relevant education and training measures through the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) in support of redundant S R Technics workers is strictly time limited to finish on 9 October 2011. This end date is determined at two years from the date of application in accordance with the regulations governing the operation of the fund, and cannot be extended. This position has always been made clear to both service providers and to beneficiaries of EGF support, including the former S R Technics staff in question. It was also therefore always clear to the former SR Technics workers that the full duration of the course would not be funded by the State and that funding would end before accreditation is achieved.

In relation to the question of alternative funding, officials from my Department met a delegation of the former workers last month and discussed in detail both the position in relation to EGF funding and the full range of options and supports that are available to students generally, including former S R Technics staff, who wish to pursue education programmes in the publicly funded higher education system. I have also written to a member of the delegation re-emphasising the position as outlined.

The Department of Social Protection has already confirmed that if the students remain on the programme on a full-time basis beyond the EGF cut-off date that they will be entitled to retain their Back to Education Allowance. This would be a considerable advantage to the students in terms of providing income support while progressing in education. It should also be noted that All Hallows College has been extremely helpful in running what was originally a part-time course on a full time basis under the EGF programme in order to accelerate students' progress on a modular basis and maximise the scope for them to benefit from the EU funding available. It is open to the students to engage with All Hallows College to seek a reduced course fee for continuance of the course full time but at their own expense.

Alternatively, the relevant students could potentially transfer to other full time courses in the public system which are part of the Free Fees Scheme without losing their Back to Education Allowance. The accreditation of learning gained at All Hallows College prior to any such transfer is a matter for the college in conjunction with the Higher Education Authority.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.