Vol. 552 No. 1
74 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her Department are reducing the number of participants on social employment schemes; the number of reductions in places she is proposing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11569/02]
80 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of FÁS schemes which have been cut back; the cost of the cutbacks; if these schemes can be renewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11967/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 80 together.
In accordance with the Government's decision in 1999 to restructure community employment participation levels are gradually being reduced reflecting the falling numbers of the long-term unemployed, and the shift in emphasis away from work experience programmes to training, from which there is a greater level of progression to employment. The mainstreaming of schools services currently under way and the proposed mainstreaming of other essential services, including the health and environmental sectors, will further reduce the numbers employed on the programme.
There were 30,809 participants on CE at the beginning of 2002 and I anticipate a year-end participation rate in the region of 24,000. In excess of €355 million was spent on CE by FÁS during 2001 and the proposed budget for 2002 is €333 million. During this period over €40 million has been transferred from the FÁS budget to the Department of Education and Science to replace CE services in schools.
