There are many people doing important work in adult education across this country. One mechanism for that is so-called local training initiatives, LTIs. There are 100 workers spread out throughout 16 ETBs. Scandalously, these workers for LTIs have not had an increase in their pay in 20 years despite the deepening cost-of-living crisis. In 2001, the Labour Court recognised pay inequities within the community training programme and recommended a 20% pay increase, as well as future increases, but they were not extended to those working for LTIs. Community training staff who are funded in the same way as LTIs, follow identical guidelines and work with the same students received those pay increases and salary scales but the LTI workers did not. Their committee has two simple asks, namely, pay parity with community training centres, CTCs, and the implementation of pay scales. I am aware that there are discussions ongoing with a small offer being made but there is still no promise of a pay scale like other, similar workers. Can the Government commit to these asks?

I appreciate the Deputy raising that issue. I do not have an up-to-date position on the matter, but I will ask the relevant Department Minister to respond to the Deputy.

That concludes Questions on Policy or Legislation.