KIlkenny-based Empower Training remains in limbo as the State accreditation body FETAC analyses a report from the centre on alleged irregularities at the centre.
Last week it emerged that the State-approved private training facility was under investigation by the accreditation agency and also by the Gardai for compliance issues.
The centre remains under suspension by FETAC while the investigation is on-going and while a report from the company is being examined by FETAC.
Speaking to the Kilkenny Advertiser this week, director of corporate services, Ultan Tuite said that it may be some time before the body comes to any conclusion about Empower Training.
“We are still going through the information provided to us by the company and it will be a little while before we have any conclusion to the matter. Unfortunately, we can’t say anything to students who are waiting to hear whether their certificates are forthcoming or not, until this investigation is completed. Until we find a conclusion, the suspension will remain in place,” he added.
Discrepancies were discovered when Skillnets, which funds and facilitates training at 60 networks of private sector companies, in a range of sectors and regions, carried out an investigation and found that some courses which had been approved and for which attendance sheets had been filled, had not taken place.
It is understood that State agencies FAS and Skillnets have poured up to €1 million into the training centre which also offers courses nationwide.
Students have participated in courses such as childcare, business, healthcare, psychology, and more, and many students are still waiting to hear whether their accreditation will be honoured by FETAC.
