Vol. 521 No. 1
54 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the promised working group on the community employment scheme has been established, in view of the ratification of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness; the composition of the group; when it is expected to report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16502/00]
As provided for in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, issues regarding the mainstreaming of essential services currently provided by Community Employment participants will be considered by the PPF standing committee on the labour market, under the aegis of my Department.
This committee comprises representatives from relevant organisations and Government Departments, including the Departments of Finance, Social, Community and Family Affairs, CORI, INOU, ICTU, National Youth Council of Ireland, IBEC, FÁS, and my Department. Other organisations and agencies, as may also have an interest in the work of this committee, will also be invited to participate.
It is proposed to progress the issue relating to CE essential services directly with relevant Government Departments initially, before reporting to the standing committee on the outcome of these discussions. Consultations between my Department and the Department of Education and Science with regard to the mainstreaming of CE schools services are already under way in this respect.
Discussions and consultations on the mainstreaming of CE essential services are likely to be somewhat protracted given the various interests involved and I am unable at present to offer a completion date for the work of the standing committee. It is my intention, however, that these discussions will be brought to completion as quickly as possible.
