Jobseekers Benefit to FAS Training Allowance

Can anyone clarify my situation please:

I have been getting Jobseekers Benefit since July 09, but because of my earnings 2 years prior to this, I only qualified for the second tier of benefit, not the full rate. I've just commenced a full-time FAS Training Course about 30 miles away and was expecting to receive the full Training Allowance (currently €196 per week) which is slightly higher than the Jobseekers Benefit I get.

I thought the FAS Training Allowance for adults was fixed at the full rate but, after some deliberation, they tell me they can only pay me the same rate as the lower rate Jobseekers Benefit I get. I've searched online and cannot find anything anywhere that mentions a reduced rate of Training Allowance. Even the FAS website doesn't say anything about the rate being reduced to the equivalent of the Jobseekers Benefit you receive.

Does anyone know the facts? Thanks.

You should be entitled to get the full rate, they always used to pay the full rate regardless what unemployment payment the unemployed person was on prior to going on the training course, however they have brought in so many changes that it is very diffficult to keep on track of them. If they are cutting back on the allowances paid while a person goes on a FAS course, I really can't see the incentive for unemployed people to go on these training schemes. It cost money to get there with transport costs, childcare etc. Ring the national centre for the unemployed, they should be ble to advise you. Tel:01 8485630

Thanks Marietta, I'll phone them and the Citizens Advice as soon as I can.