I propose to take Questions Nos. 321, 322 and 323 together.
The Department of Social Protection (DSP) undertakes periodic Programme & Training Monitoring visits of all Community Employment (CE) schemes (at least one per year) in accordance with standard operating procedures. There is also a separate comprehensive monitor carried out on the financial aspects of each CE project every year. It is incumbent on every Sponsor to be compliant in all aspects of the operation of Community Employment.
Schemes that are found to be non-compliant as a result of a monitoring visit are given an opportunity to rectify any issues arising. DSP reserves the right, as per clause 16 of the Community Employment Agreement with the Sponsor, to terminate the agreement should the Sponsor fail to operate and administer the project to the satisfaction of DSP and in accordance with the specific conditions of the Agreement.
With respect to disputes arising within a CE scheme, complaints related to employment matters should be addressed to the complainant’s Supervisor in the first instance. If the complaint remains unresolved, it should be referred to the complainant’s employer, i.e. the Sponsor of the project.
Complaints related to the Sponsor’s management of the programme should be referred to the local DSP Intreo Officer with responsibility for the project. If the complaint remains unresolved, it should then be referred to the local Area Manager with responsibility for CE schemes.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.