Vol. 519 No. 3
115 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has reached a decision with regard to approximately 500 people on the whole time job initiative scheme who have not secured jobs outside the scheme; if she will consider establishing a programme to provide suitable options for them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13912/00]
The job initiative programme is a three year work experience programme for persons who have been unemployed for five years or longer. The programme is available to persons 35 years of age or older who are in receipt of either unemployment assistance, unemployment benefit or one parent family payment. The fundamental objective of JI is to progress participants into mainstream employment.
The process of consultations with the social partners on the future operation of JI is now nearing completion and I am aware of the urgent need for clarification for sponsors and participants involved with the programme. This will not be delayed.
For those who are approaching their final phase on JI, and who have not secured employment or are not otherwise job-ready, it is intended to provide them with intensive support either to obtain open market employment or to progress to other options which will enhance their employability.
