asked the Minister for Labour if he noted the report on workers' co-operatives in the May 1984 issue of a publication (details supplied); and the measures he proposes to take to encourage the creation of workers' co-operatives.
Written Answers. - Workers' Co-operatives.
341.
I have noted the article on worker co-operatives to which the Deputy refers.
The Government have recognised the important contribution that new local initiatives can make both in the creation of economically sustainable employment and as a means of regenerating the spirit of enterprise within communities faced with high levels of unemployment. As a result the focus of Government employment creation policy has become more centred on the development and nurturing of small indigeneous enterprises involving community and worker co-operatives. Government policy in favour of such co-operatives is being actively pursued by the Industrial Development Authority.
My Department and agencies are also actively encouraging and supporting the development of worker co-operatives through a number of measures such as: the enterprise allowance and employment incentive schemes run by my Department; several initiatives by AnCO's external training division — most notably the impending establishment of a section assigned to co-operative development through training; and the Youth Employment Agency's community and youth enterprise programme and youth self employment programme which is co-sponsored with the Bank of Ireland. My Department is also participating in an OECD programme on local employment initiatives, including co-operatives.