Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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838. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will make formal enquiries to Solas regarding the delay in making the education and training fund agreed available to workers (details supplied); and the way they can accelerate the progress given the drawn out struggle which has resulted in these workers not receiving same after years of dutiful employment. [42293/21]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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In recognition of the exceptional circumstances of this case, as reflected in Kevin Foley’s report, the Government was willing to allocate a fund of €3 million, to be administered by SOLAS, to support career guidance, training, education, and pre-retirement planning etc. for the former Debenhams workers. The €3m fund was put to the former Debenhams members for ballot, which was passed on 20th May 2021. 

My officials, and SOLAS, are aware of the necessity to finalise the arrangements as quickly as possible. 

The current position is that SOLAS are engaging with the liquidators on the identification of the former Debenhams workers who will be invited to apply for support from the Fund.  SOLAS has also finalised a paper on the activities proposed for support from the Fund, and the levels of such support. SOLAS is engaging continuously with former Debenhams workers and their representatives regarding arrangements.

In addition to this, my Department is engaging with officials in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on the financing of the Fund, and the associated staffing requirements. Arrangements are also being made to establish the advisory committee as referenced in Report of the Chairman of the Labour Court.

There are so many upskilling and reskilling opportunities within further education and training (FET) and beyond, and SOLAS will work with the former workers individually to find the right option, and right support, which will meet their needs.