Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 12 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 1

Written Answers. - Job Creation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

95 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans she has to ensure the provision of adequate job opportunities with suitable skill requirements for those unemployed in areas having traditionally high unemployment levels and social and economic deprivation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21860/00]

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

The creation of a business environment in which job opportunities continue to flourish and, equally, in which job applicants have the requisite skills requirements, is one of the primary objectives of this Government.

As part of the Government's continuing commitment to improve the job opportunities for the more disadvantaged sectors of society, I recently launched a new programme aimed at providing sustainable jobs for long-term unemployed and disadvantaged communities. The social economy programme will provide opportunities for those in long-term unemployment who are finding it most hard to get or hold on to jobs despite the booming economy. The innovative approach in this programme – the setting up of social economy enterprises – will tackle both these aspects of the social inclusion agenda. As well as providing employment, the programme will play an important role in regenerating local economies and improving the quality of life in local communities. The aim is to invest up to £41 million per annum in social economy enterprises. A total of £213 million has been provided in the national development plan up to 2006 and the objective is to create the equivalent of 2,500 jobs by 2003.

Last year, I introduced a new community enterprise centre initiative which was specifically aimed at providing employment opportunities in large urban areas suffering significant deprivation, including above average, long-term unemployment. A total of £13.5 million has now been allocated under this initiative.

Question No. 96 taken with Question No. 63.