Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 126: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if there will be any changes to the way an organisation (details supplied) will be able to employ and access participants on community employment schemes once the structures are introduced for Solas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36743/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Government announced a new further education and training authority to be called SOLAS (Seirbhísí Oideachais Leanúnaigh agus Scileanna) in July 2011. SOLAS has a mandate to ensure the provision of high-quality further education and training programmes to jobseekers and other learners for the 21st century. These services were previously provided by FÁS. SOLAS will operate under the aegis of the Department of Education and Skills. As a result of the introduction of SOLAS and the transfer or the remaining employment and community services elements to the Department of Social Protection, FÁS will be disbanded. Changes being introduced in relation to SOLAS and the disbandment of FÁS should not impact on the operation of the community employment programme.