Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Sep 1999

Vol. 508 No. 1

Written Answers. - Community Employment Schemes.

Liam Aylward

Question:

164 Mr. Aylward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will amend the regulations which currently apply to widows wishing to participate in FÁS schemes who must transfer their widow's pension payment to lone parent allowance thereby withdrawing their marital status and reducing their social welfare payments, particularly where a woman is in receipt of a contributory widow's pension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18174/99]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney):

A restructuring of the community employment programme was approved by Government on 21 July 1999. As part of the restructuring process widows and widowers were given access to community employment in their own right. This change has been implemented with effect from 15 September 1999.

Bearing in mind that the community employment programme is primarily a support initiative for those who need to gain a foothold in the open labour market, priority will be given to the most disadvantaged groups in this respect.