Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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361. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding vocational training in the hospitality industry (details supplied) in which there are no training for the past two years; his plans to alter this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35124/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Failte Ireland's remit includes that it "encourage, promote and support the recruitment, training, and education and development, of persons for the purposes of employment in connection with the tourism industry in the State". However, my Department has a broader concern that training and education offerings are aligned with the needs of industry. Officials of my Department met representatives of the hospitality industry to discuss the issue and we will continue to examine the availability of genuine job opportunities in this area and examine the training offerings in that light. It should be noted that FAS has recently developed a small number of foundation level courses in catering and hospitality through its Local Training Initiatives, Community Training Centres and Specialist Training Providers. These awards/modules are offered in response to specific local requests where there is a recognised employment opportunity.