Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 September 2006
942 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will ensure that policy operated by FÁS, which is set by the Government, in relation to the job initiative scheme and the requirement to retire at 66 years of age will be changed in order that persons can continue to work in free schemes beyond age 66 in line with stated Government policy (details supplied). [28530/06]
View answerPresent policy is that participation on FÁS employment schemes has an upper age limit of 65 years of age. Under this arrangement FÁS may provide funds to community based employers to cover participant costs until the day before his/her 66th birthday. As the Deputy is aware, as FÁS is not the employer of scheme participants, any employer may choose to continue to employ individuals beyond their 66th birthday through non FÁS funded sources.
