A NEW strategy for the State training agency Fás is to be delivered to the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, Mary Coughlan, next month, the authority’s chairman has said.
The board concluded two days of meetings in Waterford yesterday during which it reviewed the authority’s performance, its contracted training programmes and its strategy for the future.
Chairman Michael Dempsey said in a statement that Fás had an ambitious programme to deliver in 2010 to support people who were unemployed and seeking guidance, training and reskilling opportunities.
He said the authority’s targets for guidance, training interventions, community employment and other supports were on track. During 2010 it would provide training, community employment and other opportunities to more than 150,000 people.
He said given the challenges facing people seeking employment, it was vital that the body charged with providing high-quality skills training delivered on its goals.
“We are committed to delivering a new strategy and plan for the future which will ensure that we provide high-quality skills training to the people that we are mandated to serve and which will equip them to compete for jobs now and into the future. This strategy will be provided to the Tánaiste in October.”
He said the board considered a draft report on its contracted training provision following a detailed review of this aspect of its work. Contracted training represents about 25 per cent of the overall Fás training provision.
He said the board sought additional information and clarifications on the draft findings. The report will be finalised in the coming weeks and will be released as soon as possible thereafter.
On the issue of people who completed Fás courses and exams but have not been issued with their certificates, Mr Dempsey said the board would ensure that the review of the problem would be completed and any necessary corrective action taken.
“It is a core value of Fás that each person receives high-quality training which is properly assessed and certified. In order to ensure the integrity of all certificates both now and in the future, it is essential that this matter is dealt with in a thorough fashion.
“Unfortunately this process has delayed the issuing of some certificates and Fás regrets that this has been necessary. However, any outstanding issues are being resolved and certificates will be issued as quickly as possible.”