Vol. 427 No. 8
158 Mr. R. Bruton and Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the plans, if any, he has to introduce wage subsidies as promised in the Programme for Partnership Government 1993-1997 (details supplied); if legislation will be required; and the Exchequer costs involved.
The proposals outlined in the Programme for a Partnership Government are objectives to be achieved over the period 1993-1997 having regard to the availability of resources.
I have not yet developed proposals for a new wage subsidy scheme and it would therefore be premature to presume that legislation will necessarily arise in connection with the commitment in question.
In the meantime, however, I can confirm that the Employment Incentive Scheme which is aimed at the long term unemployed, early school leavers and other disadvantaged persons will continue in operation.
I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to employers to give more consideration to the long term unemployed when filling vacancies.
