To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 49275/11-16, to detail (i) how those on track to gain a Level 1 qualification under the European Social Fund 2014-2020 are actively encouraged to pursue higher qualifications beyond this; and (ii) what type of support his Department can provide to ensure that this specific progression remains a key component of the European Social Fund 2014-2020.

As I explained in my response to AQW 49275/11-16, progression is a key component of the 2014-2020 European Social Fund (ESF) Programme, meaning that individuals are enabled and encouraged to progress to Level 2 qualifications and above, through other Departmental provision such as Further Education; Apprenticeships NI; or Steps to Success. This forms part of a Departmental-wide strategy to increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.

Under the ESF 2014-2020 Programme, key outcomes and targets relate specifically to the progression of participants, whether that is into employment or into further training. Whilst the Programme has overall targets in this respect, each individual project funded under the Programme also has specific targets relating to the progression of participants. As such, the active encouragement of participants’ progression forms a cornerstone of all ESF funding.

Given the overall Programme targets in respect of progression, I assure you that it will remain a key component of the Programme.