Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
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187. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the educational or training opportunities available to a young person over 16 years of age who has not completed the junior certificate either through an ETB or another training or education provider; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52831/19]

John Halligan (Waterford, Independent)
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Youthreach is the primary programme offered by Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and Community Training Centres for young people below the age of 21 who have not completed the Junior Certificate.  It is the Government’s principal response to early school leaving and educational disadvantage. Young early school leavers, are provided with an opportunity to progress their education and training and acquire certification. The programme is now an integral and vital part of the Irish education and training continuum. It is recognised that educational disadvantage results from a variety of factors and, reflecting this, programmes are tailored to accommodate the individual needs of participants and support services including counselling are provided.

ETBs also offer a wide range of programmes for adults with basic skills needs, including the Adult Literacy Programme, courses under the Back To Education Initiative and the Skills to Advance Programme. 

Each of the  Education and Training Boards (ETB) across Ireland have offer adult educational guidance services.  These services are free and confidential, and can help learners identify and overcome any challenges to accessing education and training and assist in choosing the best option for learning for the individual.

Further information on ETB guidance services and course provision is available at  .