Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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199. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the conditions under which persons can participate in the skills to compete programme announced as part of the July stimulus; and the duration for which the additional supports will remain in place. [29257/20]

Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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Skills to Competeblends transferable skills development with digital upskilling and targeted sector-focused education and training. Targeted provision will focus on skills for employment in identified growth occupations and sectors, including new and green technologies leading to awards at levels 4-6 on the NFQ.

The Skills to Compete initiative is aimed at those whose employment has been impacted by Covid-19. Specific supports will be targeted on key cohorts most at risk of falling into long-term unemployment or economic inactivity. The focus of this initiative is also on sectors particularly impacted by Covid-19, such as accommodation and food, wholesale/retail and construction sectors.

There is a requirement for individuals who are in receipt of income support and wish to participate in full-time programmes attracting a training allowance to engage with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP). Their local INTREO office will guide them through the referral process.

These Skills to Compete programme will remain in place in response to the medium and longer term economic impact of Covid-19.