Pearse Doherty (Donegal South West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 30: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide an update on the European Globalisation Fund application in respect of a company (details supplied); and the measures he will take if this application is successful to ensure that the failure that occurred with previous EGF programmes is not repeated. [30990/12]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, my Department made an application to the European Commission for co-financing assistance under the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund on 29th February 2012 for those workers made redundant as a result of the closure of the TalkTalk facility in Waterford including in a number of ancillary enterprises. During the months of March and April, the Directorate General for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunity has sought certain clarifications which have been provided in a timely manner. It is understood that Ireland's application has since been taken into the Commission's wider internal consultation process in accordance with their formal procedures. It may take a number of months before this process is completed and a decision is made on the application by the College of Commissioners. Thereafter the agreement of the European Council and the European Parliament must also be secured. However, you can be assured that my officials will continue to do everything possible to ensure a successful outcome as appropriate.

In the interim a number of tailored measures in support of the redundant workers have been initiated and are being funded from national sources in anticipation of subsequent EGF co-financing.

The choices available to former TalkTalk workers are consistent with those provided in previous EGF programmes which include pursuit of further education and training, enterprise and self-employment supports, guidance and career planning. To date, 268 persons have made contact with the dedicated EGF Co-ordination Office, with most expressing interest in the provision of training grants and pursuing higher education.

Reflecting positively on experience of other EGF programmes in Ireland, I have introduced a series of initiatives including:(a) The early establishment of a Co-ordination Unit in Waterford to act as a 'one-stop-shop' for those seeking assistance under this programme; (b) a Courses Expenses Contribution scheme which provides for up to €3,000 per annum in the defrayment of travel and equipment costs arising from such programmes, and, (c) front-loading of initiatives from the National Training Fund and Exchequer to meet any expenditure incurred by service providers to date.

I am confident that these actions, which are designed specifically for this programme, will enhance the experience of those who engage and assist in positioning them for future opportunities.

Finally, in the event of the EU Commission approving the application, I propose to establish a forum of key stakeholders to ensure good communications in this programme.