The Minister of State for Research and Innovation, Seán Sherlock TD, today (22nd February 2012) opened the 9th annual conference of the National Association of Youthreach Co-ordinators (NAYC).

Minister Sherlock thanked the organisers for his invitation and noted that it was fitting for the NAYC to be gathered in Limerick, where the first Youthreach Centre was established in February 1989.

Speaking at the event, the Minister said “The original objective of the Youthreach programme back in 1989 was to provide participants with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to successfully make the transition to work and adult life.

“Now we have over 100 centres serving almost 3,700 learners nationwide, with a further 2,300 places available in Community Training Centres, which are managed by FÁS”.

The Government’s establishment of SOLAS, the new further education and training authority, will provide a clear direction for the future of the further education and training sector.

It will ensure the provision of high quality education and training programmes, which are integrated, flexible, provide value for money and respond to the needs of learners, jobseekers and business.

Minister Sherlock said: “Now, more than ever before, education and training is needed not just to secure the jobs of tomorrow, but to secure a just and fair society for generations of young people to come. Youthreach continues to play its role in this great endeavour.”

The Minister noted the retirement of Dr Dermot Stokes and thanked him for his work during his 23 years as national Youthreach co-ordinator.

Minister Sherlock concluded by thanking all of the co-ordinators for their work in delivering the programme on a daily basis.