Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2017
417. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans for the successful Tús programme following media reports that there are plans to cease it and in view of the fact this programme has contributed greatly to communities here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9750/17]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the purpose of Tús is to provide short-term work opportunities for those who are unemployed for more than a year. It is designed to break the cycle of unemployment and maintain work readiness, thereby improving a person’s opportunities of returning to the labour market. In addition, I want to acknowledge the valuable services Tús provides to local communities.
With the ongoing welcome reductions in the Live Register, issues such as the appropriate level of expenditure, the number of places and the criteria for participation on employment schemes, including Tús, are all being considered. In any consideration of these schemes, the benefits they provide to participants and their communities will be taken into account. I will be bringing a Memorandum to Government on the operation of these programmes in the coming weeks. If there are changes to be made, consultations with stakeholders will be facilitated.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
