Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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562. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the supports that are available for older persons that wish to retrain in information technology in order to return to the workplace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11063/22]

Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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There are a range of options available to address digital skills needs at all levels, from basic digital literacy to high level digital skills. I would encourage people of all ages to avail of these skills. Anyone who wishes to develop their abilities can contact their local Education and Training Board to discuss what courses, and indeed additional supports, may be available to them to meet their particular needs. It is open to everyone and is free of charge. You can find the contact details for the Service are available at www.gov.ie/therightcourse.

Skills to Compete is a SOLAS reskilling and retraining initiative which provides transversal skills development to help employability. It builds the digital capabilities now required for almost every job with specific Level 4-6 courses targeting growth sectors and occupations. Within this initiative there are a wide range of ICT courses available across the 16 ETBs.

eCollege, the national further education and training online learning service, also offers a range of ICT courses. Operating on a continuous intake basis it offers flexible, fully online learning opportunities leading to certification. As an emergency response to COVID-19, eCollege was opened to public applications in March 2020, offering free online learning options.

The Right Course, my Department’s one stop shop for businesses, employees and unemployed people, outlines the range of third level options available together with information on grants, other financial supports and career guidance at www.gov.ie/therightcourse.