Seán Ryan
Question:23 Mr. Ryan asked the Minister for Labour if he is satisfied that the social employment schemes have met their objective; and if he has any plans to replace the scheme.
Written Answers. - Social Employment Schemes.
I am satisfied that the social employment scheme, SES, is meeting the objective set for it of providing work related opportunities for long term unemployed persons over 25 years of age. The work undertaken is also of considerable benefit to the local community. The current high level of unemployment generally and particularly among the long term unemployed means that there is a continuing need for a scheme such as the SES.
The scheme is kept under review to see if changes are necessary. It is being adapted on a pilot basis, in the 12 partnership areas established under the Programme for Economic and Social Progress and is being replaced in these areas by the Community Employment Development Programme which will contain a training element in it. However, the scheme will continue on its present basis in the remainder of the country until the end of the pilot period at least.
I am conscious of the need to establish priorities for the social employment scheme generally and also to have more projects sponsored by local authorities. These are matters I will be addressing with a view to ensuring that worthwhile opportunities are provided on a countrywide basis for those who are long term unemployed.