I propose to take Questions Nos. 142, 143 and 149 together.
In accordance with the Government's decision in 1999 to restructure community employment, participation levels are gradually being reduced reflecting the significant reduction in the 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. CE is a temporary work experience programme and participation is usually limited to a period of one to three years depending on the age and duration of unemployment of the participant when commencing on the programme.
CE participation levels are expected to finish the year at a level of 25,000 places. There are currently in the region of 26,000 participants on the programme. The reduction in numbers in 2002 is due to the ongoing mainstreaming of schools places, the continued restructuring of the programme as outlined in the PPF and the need to run the programme within the budget available. The average participation rate on CE in 2002 is expected to be 28,000 at a cost of €333 million. People with disabilities, including persons in receipt of the disability allowance, are currently eligible and will remain eligible to participate in CE subject to approval, as appropriate, by the Department of Social and Family Affairs and compliance with the usual programme criteria.
FÁS is currently undertaking an internal review of CE, which will include an assessment of the role of the programme in regard to the provision of community services. The PPF-mandated review of active labour market programmes is also being progressed under the aegis of the standing committee on the labour market chaired by my Department. In addition, a cross-departmental senior officials group is considering options for the future of CE and the provision of community services. The outcome of these various initiatives will inform the Government's consideration of options for the future delivery of certain community services and appropriate levels of CE for 2003 and future years.