The National Employment Action Plan, operated jointly with FÁS, is the main activation measure for jobseeker's. It has been in operation since 1998 and has proven successful in that period in assisting people on the live register back into employment. It provides for a systematic engagement of the employment services with unemployed people.
Under the Plan, all persons between the ages of 18 and 65 years who are approaching 3 months on the Live Register, are identified by the Department of Social and Family Affairs and referred to FÁS for interview with the aim of assisting them to enter/re-enter the labour market. In the period January to end of October, 2009 (the latest period for which data is available) a total of 71,405 persons were referred to FÁS — this is an increase of 42% (21,207) over the same period in 2008.
The Employment Action plan process is a key element in addressing the progression needs of those on the Live Register. It provides a stimulus to job search and affords an opportunity to explore, under professional guidance, the full range of employment and training services offered by FÁS.