Marie Sherlock (Dublin Central, Labour)
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1653. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills when discussions regarding the alignment of the Youthreach calendar year with the second level calendar year will conclude; when an announcement will be made regarding those discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29587/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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Youthreach is designed to offer second-chance education to young people who are aged 16 to 20 and have either left school early or are at risk of not completing their formal education. It is designed to provide a more flexible, supportive, and alternative learning environment compared to post-primary schools, helping participants to gain qualifications and skills that will support their future employment or further education opportunities.

My officials are continuing to engage with the TUI on its claim to realign the Youthreach calendar year with the second-level academic year calendar. I understand that the most recent engagement took place in late May with TUI officials where an alternative position was presented by the TUI. My officials were working to submit recommendations to me for consideration in advance of the next academic year. However, as TUI have now presented an alternative claim, additional time may be required.