Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 January 2012
116 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider a matter to do with to community employment schemes (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4641/12]
View answerThe Community Employment programme provides a very important and valued contribution to social employment, training and progression for unemployed people. Furthermore, many Community Employment schemes provide vital community services right across the country. There are currently 1,143 CE schemes in operation nationally with 23,300 participants. The overall estimated budget stands at €315,194 million for 2012.
The current review of financial resources initiated by the Department of Social Protection, commenced in January, with a time frame for completion by the end of March 2012. The outcomes will inform the overall approach to be taken by Department of Social Protection in prioritising spending while addressing the need for budget reductions. This review also includes an analysis of schemes income funding and generation that could be used to provide a contribution towards the CE schemes Material and Training budgets.
