24/07/2001

Allowance scheme benefits people with disabilities

Tánaiste Mary Harney has announced a major new initiative for people with disabilities on FAS training courses involving the introduction of a range of new training allowances.

Most people with disabilities have been dependent on social welfare payments as their source of income while in training, a situation which has been criticised as placing those who do not qualify for social welfare at a huge disadvantage.

However, the new initiative will see all people with disabilities on FAS training courses receiving a Training Allowance of at least £85.50 (€108.56) per week from FAS, while the majority will also get a Training Bonus of £25 (€31.74) per week. It is thought that people with disabilities who avail of this development will also be able to retain their medical card and other secondary benefits while in training.

Ms Harney also explained that trainees who are unable to continue the vocational training course, or who finish the training course and do not have a job will have their social welfare payments restored by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs.

The Tánaiste said: "In guaranteeing greater opportunities to people with disabilities, we must ensure that the same rights and benefits are available to all.” (CL)

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