Michael Bell
Question:173 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the plans, if any, he has to allow widows and widowers participate in the community employment schemes. [1833/95]
Written Answers. - Community Employment Schemes.
Edward Nealon
Question:177 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that FÁS now treats widows and widowers on contributory pension as not being eligible for work on FÁS schemes in spite of the fact that that the Department of Social Welfare has no difficulties with such pensioners taking up work on the schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1935/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 173 and 177 together.
The primary focus of the Community Employment Programme is persons who are long-term unemployed. In addition persons referred by the National Rehabilitation Board and persons in receipt of lone parent's allowance for over one year are also eligible. This latter category has recently been extended so that persons with children in receipt of deserted wife's benefit or survivor's contributory pension who opt for and are awarded a means-tested social welfare payment can apply to participate in the programme. Widows and widowers who satisfy the specified eligibility criteria can participate in the programme.