Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 10 Oct 2000

Vol. 523 No. 4

Written Answers. - Supported Employment Programme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

52 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will outline details of the supported employment programme and disability awareness training grants which she has announced, including the way in which organisations can apply for funding under these schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21339/00]

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

In July, I announced the launch of a new supported employment programme for people with disabilities. Supported employment is a model which places people with disabilities into jobs in the open labour market, working alongside able-bodied people. All of the statutory employment requirements apply to the job.

The supported employment model involves carefully assessing each individual to identify the type of work which will suit him or her; sourcing suitable employment through contacts with employers; placing the individual in employment, and providing ongoing support and coaching in the workplace, as required. These functions are carried out by a job coach, who works with the employee through each of the phases.

The supported employment programme is being administered by FÁS on behalf of my Department. In July, FÁS sought proposals to operate supported employment projects from organisations working to integrate people with disabilities into employment. Details of the call for proposals were carried in the national newspapers and on FÁS's website. The closing date for receipt of proposals was 15 September 2000. A total of 48 proposals were received and FÁS is currently assessing them.

In addition to operating the supported employment programme, FÁS is currently developing the new disability awareness training grant scheme for companies. This scheme will help to integrate people with disabilities into the workplace by providing co-workers with a better understanding of the needs and capabilities of people with disabilities. Grants will also be available to employers for the re-training of workers who acquire a disability, to help such employees to keep their existing jobs or re-train for another job in the same company. The operational details of these schemes are being finalised by FÁS and will be available shortly.