Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour)
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Question 49: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills when a person (details supplied) may expect to be called to the FÁS competency determination mechanism, CDM, scheme; if a person is able to get on a CDM scheme in a different part of the country, whether travel expenses will be provided if no CDM scheme is available near them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14402/12]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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I understand that the Competency Determination Mechanism (CDM) is a project based assessment which provides a redundant apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate their skill and knowledge against the occupational standard for the specified trade. Those who pass the CDM are progressed for the award of the FETAC Level 6 Advanced Certificate – Craft. Eligible apprentices are contacted by the FÁS Services To Business Manager inviting them to register their interest in participating on the CDM. A waiting list of interested apprentices is then compiled in 'date response letters received' order and distributed to the Training Centre delivering the CDM.

The CDM is a relatively new scheme and the number of apprentices indicating their interest in CDM is quite high. Consequently, apprentices such as the person in question due to the high demand, can expect to be waiting up to a number of months to be called. FÁS is constantly monitoring the waiting lists and may offer CDM in other locations depending on depending on demand in those locations. I am informed that apprentices will be paid the standard adult training allowance provided that they have been in receipt of Jobseekers benefit/allowance immediately prior to commencing the CDM. An accommodation or travel allowance (not both) may be payable to those who meet the qualifying criteria for those attending FÁS adult training courses.