277. Deputy Joe Flaherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will liaise with the Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board, LWETB, and restore the VTOS programme for Longford town as part of the just transition reskilling programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11319/20]

Officials in my Department have made enquiries with Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB) in relation to your question.

VTOS is a full-time 2 year programme which is aimed at adults who are long term unemployed. LWETB has informed my officials that following a review by the management of LWETB of the VTOS programme in Longford, it was found that the programme had experienced a significant decline in learner numbers over recent years.

VTOS is one programme among many options for learners in Longford and is part of a wider Further Education and Training (FET) provision in Longford and Westmeath. LWETB has stated that they are  committed to providing reskilling options for learners across a range of programmes. Other available FET provision in LWETB  includes the Back to Education Initiative (BTEI), a range of skills training programmes, PLC Courses and Community Education programmes.  LWETB also provide an Adult Guidance Service that is confidential and free of charge , and offers assistance on selecting  a programme that is best suited to a learner's individual needs.