Vol. 557 No. 4
135 Mr. Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her plans to cut the number of places on community employment schemes; if so the reason therefor; if her attention has been drawn to the important role of such schemes for social and community life generally; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22149/02]
The primary purpose of the community employment programme is to provide long-term unemployed persons with the necessary skills and confidence to take up employment in the open labour market. In accordance with the Government's decision in 1999 to restructure community employment, participation levels are gradually being reduced in line with reduced levels of long-term unemployment and a strategic shift in policy in favour of training and other more appropriate supports. The average participation rate on community employment in 2002 is expected to be in the region of 28,000, with a projected year-end participation rate of 25,000. Funding available under the 2003 Estimates will provide for an average participation rate of approximately 22,000 in 2003.
The Government is very much aware of the important contribution that community employment has made to the development of services for local communities over the years. In this context a cross-departmental senior officials group has been asked to consider options for the future of community employment, taking account of the link with the provision of community services. The outcome of these deliberations will help to inform the Government's consideration of options for the future of community employment and the provision of community services.
