ESC opinion on continuation of action programme for vocational training (PETRA)
At its 284th plenary session of 27 February 1991, the Economic and Social Committee adopted unanimously an Opinion regarding a proposal for a Council Decision (OJ No C 322, 21.12.1990) amending Decision 87/569/EEC on the action programme for the vocational training of young people and their preparation for adult and working life (PETRA). The purpose of the proposal is to consolidate and continue PETRA, combining with it the young worker's exchange programme (which expired on 31 December 1990). The ESC welcomes the proposal, noting diversity in initial vocational training in Member States, and renews its appeal for Member States, entrepreneurs and trade unions to work to enlarge the European dimension of such training, particularly in the light of technological advance, new information and communication technologies and the need for a greater proportion of well trained skilled workers. Specific comments cover training comparability, placements, mobility, career advice, dissemination of information, SMEs, language barriers, exchange programmes.