Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 May 2001

Vol. 535 No. 4

Written Answers - Social Economy Programme.

Nora Owen

Question:

100 Mrs. Owen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the status of the social economy programme; the number of jobs which will be provided in this programme; if those on existing community employment schemes will be allowed to transfer into the social economy programme; the way in which she will ensure that services currently provided through the community employment scheme will be maintained through either the social economy programme or through other FÁS or non-FÁS funds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12835/01]

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

The social economy programme was launched in September 2000. A monitoring committee, representative of relevant Departments and the social partners, has been established and has agreed the operational framework for the programme. More than 20.3 million – IR£16 million – is provided for the programme in 2001 and a total of 270.5 million – IR£213 million – up to 2006 under the national development plan. Up to 2,500 jobs are targeted to be created by 2003.

Local working groups have been established by FÁS in consultation with area partnership companies to draw up an agreed local strategy for the development of the programme. This includes the identification and prioritisation of new and innovative sectors of work activity where social economy enterprises will support the economic and social regeneration of the locality. Fifty-one local working groups have been established to date. Former community employment projects are eligible to apply for and be considered for approval as social economy enterprises as envisaged under the social economy programme. FÁS would be happy to encourage community employment projects and persons in relation to applications under the programme.

Consideration is currently being given by my Department to the potential to mainstream services currently being provided under community employment. Proposals in regard to the mainstreaming of schools services are currently at an advanced stage. Proposals will be brought to the PPF standing committee on the labour market as soon as possible for consultation with the social partners.