Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 May 2013
144. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if known, the extent to which unemployed with various skills and educational levels, have succeeded in accessing employment in each of the past four years to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24784/13]
View answerThe type of data outlined in the Deputy’s question is not collated by any Government Department or Agency. However, there are a range of measures in place which aim to match available skills with employment opportunities.
The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN), which reports jointly to me and to the Minister for Education and Skills, publishes an annual Skills Bulletin which provides a review of employment trends, job opportunities and demand for skills in the Irish economy. It is available on the website of the EGFSN at www.skillsireland.ie.
The FÁS Skills and Labour Market Research Unit which provides the EGFSN with data, analysis and research, also manages the National Skills Database.
The new Intreo employment service, operated by the Department of Social Protection, provides a personalised service to unemployed people, based on their individual needs. It includes advice on education, training and personal development opportunities, job search assistance as well as information on, and access to, a range of income supports. Intreo also provides a wide range of supports and services to assist with company employment needs and is designed to make sure companies can access potential employees from the live register. Further information on Intreo can be found on the Department of Social Protection’s website, www.welfare.ie.
JobBridge, the National Internship Scheme, which came into operation on 1st July 2011 has seen over 17,400 internships commenced since its introduction. The aim of the National Internship Scheme is to assist in breaking the cycle where jobseekers are unable to get a job without experience, either as new entrants to the labour market after education or training, or as unemployed workers wishing to learn new skills.
An independent evaluation of JobBridge conducted by Indecon Economic Consultants found that 61% of individuals who have participated in JobBridge have progressed into employment within five months of completing their internship placements. This high level of progression into employment exceeds that of similar schemes across Europe, suggesting that JobBridge is an effective labour market intervention.
