Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 11 Apr 2001

Vol. 534 No. 4

Written Answers - Community Employment Schemes.

Ulick Burke

Question:

87 Mr. U. Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has reviewed the position and difficulties caused as a result of the changes in the FÁS community employment schemes especially the restrictions for entrants and re-entry onto schemes for certain age groups who have little chance of retraining opportunities or re-entry into full-time permanent employment in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10907/01]

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

Community Employment is an active labour market programme the primary role of which is to progress participants to jobs in the open labour market. The general terms and conditions relating to participation on CE have been reviewed and adjusted in the light of both the Government's decision in 1999 to restructure this programme, and the recommendations contained in the subsequent P2000 report on facilitating women's access to labour market opportunities. I have no plans in the short-term to further amend the criteria pertaining to participation on the CE scheme.

As identified in the PPF and in the review of the operation of the Job Initiative programme carried out on behalf of my Department in 1999, some people may have difficulties in getting and keeping a job in the open labour market due to age and other personal barriers such as health, literacy and numeracy factors. Appropriate high supports are needed for people experiencing employment barriers of this nature.

Proposals for this purpose are the basis for consultation with the social partners on this matter.