Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 June 2012
360 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Social Protection if recipients of disability allowance will be allowed to access the JobBridge scheme; if so, when will they be allowed to do so; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29299/12]
View answerThe National Internship Scheme (JobBridge) was launched on 1st July 2011 and is open to organisations in the private, public and community or voluntary sectors. The Scheme provides internship opportunities of either 6 or 9 months for unemployed individuals at all skills levels. It aims to assist individuals in breaking the cycle where they are unable to get a job without experience by providing them with an opportunity to gain valuable experience, relevant knowledge and skills within a working environment.
The Scheme has made significant progress to-date. Currently, over 7,682 internships have commenced to date with 4,880 internships in place (as at 7th June 2012) and over 1,900 opportunities presently advertised onwww.jobbridge.ie. In early May, I announced proposals to increase the number of places available in JobBridge and to widen the eligibility criteria. The number of available places has been increased to 6,000 and the eligibility criteria has been extended to include those in receipt of One Parent Family Payment and Disability Allowance. These changes have taken effect from 28th May 2012.
JobBridge was one of the pillars of the Government's first Jobs Initiative and it sets out to help those seeking employment to gain valuable experience while enhancing their prospects of securing employment. It is one element of the Department's wider activation programme and a good example of how we engage with jobseekers.
