Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 196 to 198, inclusive, together.

As part of the overall national Youthreach programme, Community Training Centres (CTCs) are independent community-based organisations funded by the Education and Training Boards, catering for the training and employment needs of early school leavers, primarily aged between 16 and 21.

The training is certified leading to recognised awards on the National Framework of Qualifications. All programmes offer personal and social skills development through modules such as communications, personal effectiveness, teamwork, career planning and literacy and numeracy support which are integrated with the vocational training modules. Trainees are entitled to a training allowance on the programme and may be entitled to a meal/travel allowance.

In 2021 SOLAS allocated €33.9m to the Education and Training Boards for the provision of the programme. Based on full year data, the average annual cost of supporting a place on the programme, including the payment of allowances to learners, is estimated at €20,896.

On 1 March, there were 1,322 learners under the age of 25 enrolled in the programme.