Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 8 Oct 1992

Vol. 423 No. 2

Written Answers. - Social Employment Scheme.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

20 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Labour the plans, if any, he has to ensure that people employed on social employment schemes are not disadvantaged in relation to Christmas bonus payments for those in receipt of benefits and assistance from the Department of Social Welfare; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Labour (Mr. Cowen)

There are no funds available to me to pay a Christmas bonus to social employment scheme, SES, participants.

A participant on the SES is paid a basic allowance of £75 per week compared with £57.20 per week unemployment assistance. This differential is intended to compensate participants for the loss of secondary social welfare benefits such as a Christmas bonus when payable. A participant with one adult and three child dependants gets £145 on the scheme compared with £129 on the Live Register.