Community Employment Schemes Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 March 2013

Tuesday, 26 March 2013

Questions (336, 339)

Michael Lowry

Question:

336. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will confirm the criteria for eligibility for Tús positions and Tús supervisor posts; the reason the Tús scheme and Tús supervisor positions are closed to those on FÁS schemes; if her attention has been drawn to the the hardship and distress caused as a result; if she will consider opening this scheme and supervisor posts to those whose FÁS scheme is nearing completion; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15152/13]

Jim Daly

Question:

339. Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person currently on a community employment scheme will not qualify to be considered for a job such as a Tús supervisor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15178/13]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

I propose to take Questions Nos. 336 and 339 together.

Tús is the community work placement initiative introduced during 2011. The allocation of additional resources in 2013 will provide for 7,500 placements nationally. The initiative is delivered by local development companies and Údarás na Gaeltachta. Eligibility for supervisory/team leader positions on Tús is restricted on those on the live register for 12 months or longer and in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance. The criteria are designed to ensure that the opportunities available focus on those that have limited work opportunities. The current selection process has proved effective in recruiting people with the necessary skill set to undertake the tasks associated with the positions.