Brian O'Shea
Question:159 Mr. O'Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the social economy programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7698/03]
Written Answers - Social Economy Programme.
The social economy programme was introduced in September 2000 to provide start-up capital to social economy enterprises that create permanent sustainable employment for the long-term unemployed people over the age of 35 and other disadvantaged groups. Demand for the scheme has proved considerable. My Department provides FÁS with an annual allocation to fund the scheme. The allocations have increased from €6.62 million in 2001, to €20.55 million in 2002 and stands at over €30 million in 2003.
Notwithstanding the considerable pressures this year on current Government expenditure, the allocation to the social economy programme was increased by 50%. This increased allocation to FÁS will enable it to meet existing commitments under the programme. However, as a result of the uptake for the programme, this substantially increased allocation is not sufficient to meet all the demands.
FÁS is currently reviewing how best to schedule the support already committed to approved projects so as to ensure as equitable a distribution of funds as possible.