Donna McGettigan (Clare, Sinn Fein)
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1032. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if information will be provided on the Standardisation of Youthreach Calendar Year Sectoral Survey of ETBs (details supplied), which was sent to all of the 16 ETBs, on 27 June 2025; the reason many staff employed in the Youthreach coordinator and resource grade who are the intended target group did not receive the link to complete this survey by close of business on 4 July 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39503/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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By way of background information for the Deputy, the TUI submitted a claim to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) seeking a standardised calendar year for Youthreach Centres run by Education and Training Boards (ETBs).

My officials agreed an approach to consider the proposal with the TUI. As part of this, my officials have been working with the National Youthreach Co-ordinator, Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBIs), SOLAS, ETB representatives, the Department of Education’s Inspectorate, TUI and the National Association of Youthreach Coordinators (NAYC) to gather relevant information. Further, officials are reviewing all recent research on Youthreach. A working group has been set up to advise on the approach. On the basis of information collected, my officials will submit a paper to me for consideration.

On 25 June, my officials invited position papers from key representative bodies, including NAYC, ETBI, and the TUI. ETBI initiated a survey of ETBs to inform its paper on this industrial relations matter. ETBI have advised my officials its paper will be shared with the sector for information. As independent employers contributing to a sectoral paper, each ETB determines its own method by which it will collect data. ETBI have confirmed that, while it represents the sector in these matters, it does not represent staff. This is the responsibility of the respective union, which has also been invited to submit a paper to my Department.

Given the proposal is for a substantial change to the delivery an important programme, I am sure the Deputy will agree, this robust approach must be taken. I am confident the voices and experiences of Youthreach staff will be represented within this process.