FAS has begun a new programme designed to track its effectiveness for women. The agency will place special emphasis on ensuring that FAS services reach key groups such as long-term unemployed women, those returning to the workforce, women with disabilities, female travellers and early school-leavers.

At the end of 1997, women represented 43 per cent of all participants completing FAS courses, compared with a participation rate of just 30 per cent in 1990.