The Partial Capacity Benefit scheme was formally launched on Monday 13 February 2012. Full details of the scheme have been published on my Department's website and an information leaflet has also been published.
The Partial Capacity Benefit scheme provides an opportunity for people with disabilities, and assessed to have an employment capacity which is restricted when compared to the norm, to avail of employment opportunities in the open labour market while continuing to receive an income support payment.
From 16 January 2012, new participants on Community Employment schemes will not be able to simultaneously claim their original social welfare payment and a Community Employment allowance. These arrangements apply also to claimants of the Partial Capacity Benefit. Accordingly, it will not be open to claimants to retain Partial Capacity Benefit while on a Community Employment scheme.