asked the Minister for Local Government if the Government have considered the possibility of employing school leavers in amenity grant projects while they are awaiting the opportunity of pursuing their chosen careers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - School Leavers' Employment Opportunities.
29.
I presume that the Deputy is referring to projects under the amenity grants scheme. Full responsibility for such projects was devolved on local authorities. I understand that employment on amenity schemes carried out by local authorities is in accord with normal practice under which preference is given to persons previously employed on roadworks or other direct labour schemes and that any further requirements are met by recruitment through the local offices of the Department of Social Welfare.
As regards amenity schemes carried out by voluntary bodies, employment would be a matter for the bodies concerned but it will be appreciated that voluntary labour is often relied on in such cases.