Vol. 426 No. 3
29 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if he has satisfied himself with the situation where persons within the Programme for Economic and Social Progress initiative areas receive higher take-home pay on taking up work or training opportunities as compared with persons from other areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
69 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if he has satisfied himself with the situation where persons within the Programme for Economic and Social Progress initiative areas receive higher take-home pay on taking up work or training opportunities as compared with persons from the other areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 69 together.
The Government's top priority is to maximise the number of persons participating in community employment schemes within the funds allocated for that purpose.
It has been decided, therefore, that the special differential payable to those living in pilot areas designated under the Programme for Economic and Social Progress will be discontinued for new entrants for the remainder of this year at least.
Subject to the scheme being eligible for European Community funding under the Community Support Framework for 1994-1999 the level of payment to all participants regardless of area of residence will be reconsidered for 1994 onwards.
