Vol. 572 No. 3
184 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position at present regarding the social economy programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23016/03]
The social economy programme, SEP, provides employment opportunities for the long-term unemployed while at the same time providing local community services. The budget for the programme in 2003 is €30.836 million. To date a total of 336 social economy enterprises has commenced operation with a total of nearly 2,400 employees.
A review of the social economy programme is being undertaken and is expected to be completed shortly. This will inform the future direction of the programme.
