I propose to take Questions Nos. 4 and 26 together. There are essentially two parts to Deputy O'Rourke's question. The first concerns the recruitment subsidy scheme, Jobstart, and my attention has not been drawn to any such comments.
As regards the local employment service, my plans for 1996 are that the service should be consolidated in the 14 key areas. I regard the LES as an important initiative by the Government to address unemployment, and particularly long-term unemployment in these areas. The local nature of the service is especially significant, with all the relevant players in the area coming together to draw up their responses to local needs. I have been impressed with the care with which the plans have been and are being drawn up. It is important to ensure that worthwhile, effective plans, fully agreed at local levels, are in place. This cannot be done from Kildare Street.
I am concerned that the detailed rules and procedures for Jobstart, currently being developed in consultation with IBEC and ICTU, will contain effective anti-abuse provisions. I know the social partners are similarly concerned. I can assure the Deputy that there will be effective anti-abuse provisions in place by the time the scheme becomes operational in July of this year.