Vol. 561 No. 1
248 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the hourly rate and meal allowance awarded to Youthreach participants; if he will revise the travel allowance and extend the eligibility of this allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3597/03]
Training allowances, travel and meal allowances for Youthreach participants are payable in line with the rates paid for FÁS training generally.
The rates from 1 January 2002 for Youthreach were as follows: meals –€4 per week, or 80c per day; and travel – 0-three miles, nil, three-five miles, €4.60 per week, five-ten miles, €11.90 per week, ten-20 miles, €17.60 per week, 20-30 miles, €21.60 per week, 30-40 miles, €27.70 per week, 40-50 miles, €32.60 per week.
An increase in the rate of weekly training allowances, effective from 1 January 2003, has been agreed as set out as follows: aged 15 to 16 years, €50.80 per week, aged 17, €63.50 per week, aged 18 and over, €124.80 per week. These revised rates are currently being notified to vocational education committees.
The rate of training allowance for Youthreach trainees aged 18 and over is linked to the maximum unemployment payment under the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs for an adult. An additional training bonus of €31.80 per week may be payable in certain circumstances. It is expected that any future increase in FÁS allowances will also apply in Youthreach.
