Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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Question 57: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the merger of vocational education committees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25910/12]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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In October 2011, following Government approval, the General Scheme of an Education and Training Boards Bill was referred to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Jobs, Social Protection and Education. The General Scheme was also published at that time. Following discussion with my Department and relevant stakeholders, the committee prepared a report which I responded on 25 January 2012. The General Scheme was referred to the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to the Government for formal drafting.

Also in October 2011, my Department concluded an agreement with SIPTU, the trade union representing the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of VECs, on a redeployment scheme for CEOs in the context of the Croke Park agreement. This scheme will be used, in the first instance, for determining the appointment of CEOs to the new Education and Training Boards, following the enactment of the relevant legislation.

Question No. 58 answered with Question No. 32.