Paul Connaughton (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 162: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the assistance that is available for low income families, when both partners are working, to avail of short courses such as train the trainer or caring for the elderly FETAC courses, which would help improve their chances of employment in view of the fact that currently such courses appear to be available free or at reduced rates to those wholly dependant on social welfare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26620/12]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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My Department provides funds to Vocational Education Committees (VECs) and FÁS to provide a range of full-time and part-time further education and training courses to help people improve their skills and to meet the changing needs of the labour market.

Part-time VEC further education courses are generally free to all adults with less than upper second level education while FÁS training courses are generally free for adults who are in receipt of a welfare payment.

People who wish to find out more about these courses should contact their local VEC or FÁS office.