160. Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will clarify a situation (details supplied) regarding training courses for the long-term unemployed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40847/15]

There is a target of 6,000 places to be made available in the current round of Momentum. I understand that Programmes are currently providing up to 5,700 additional training and education places to the long-term unemployed and it is expected that the remaining 300 places will be made available over the coming months. The current expectation is that the Momentum programme will spend the full allocated budget for the programme. In terms of a further round of Momentum officials in my Department are working with their colleagues in the Department of Social Protection to determine the overall requirement for education and training programmes for 2016. The arrangements for and the timing of any potential third round of Momentum will be considered in that context and in the light of the evaluation of the current round of Momentum.