Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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109. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality to clarify the excessive cost for those who want to complete the Private Security Authority course to receive a door licence for security work; to review the cost of the course or create a mechanism to assist those who cannot afford it but who wish to work in security; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9863/16]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Private Security Authority (PSA), established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, as amended, is the regulatory body with responsibility for regulating and licensing the private security industry in the State. The Authority is an independent body under the aegis of my Department and I have no involvement in its day to day operations.

I can however inform the Deputy that any person seeking to obtain employment in the Door Supervisor (Licensed Premises) sector must acquire a licence from the PSA. The Authority requires all individuals who apply for such a licence to hold a national training qualification. The minimum training requirement for this particular sector is prescribed as the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Level 4 Minor Award, or equivalent, in Door Security Procedures.

QQI validated training courses are provided by a range of training providers, both public and private, who are independent of the Authority. The Authority plays no role in determining the cost of courses - this is a matter for the individual training provider. The Authority holds a list of QQI approved training providers on its website, , and it is a matter for each applicant to choose the training provider that best suits their needs.

The Deputy may wish to note that a Training Support Grant is available via the Department of Social Protection. I am informed that this scheme is designed to fund access to short-term training where that training can support job-seekers to access work opportunities.