Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2017
1854. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the number of places available on community employment schemes; the number of persons participating in community employment schemes from 2011 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37913/17]
View answerThe aim of the Community Employment (CE) programme is to enhance the employability of disadvantaged and unemployed people by providing work experience and training opportunities for them within their communities. The programme helps break the cycle of unemployment and improve a person’s chances of returning to the labour market. My Department is also conscious of the valuable contribution these schemes are making in the provision of services to individuals and communities across Ireland.
The Department for Employment Affairs and Social Protection assumed responsibility for the Community Employment (CE) Programme from FÁS in January 2012. The number of participants employed on CE schemes nationally as at the end of December 2012 to end of June 2017 is as follows;
- 2012: 21,081
- 2013: 22,575
- 2014: 23,249
- 2015: 22,813
- 2016: 22,356
- 2017: 22,053
The number of people on CE fluctuates on an ongoing basis as vacancies arise and are filled on schemes. With reducing numbers on the Live Register, which is the main target cohort for CE, demand for places may also vary.
CE Sponsors advertise their vacancies free-of-charge on the Department's JobsIreland website - www.jobsireland.ie. Posting vacancies is a relatively simple process and a dedicated video tutorial is available on the site to assist sponsors. Anyone requiring further assistance can contact my Department’s National Contact Centre by phone at Lo Call 1890 800 024 or (01) 248 1398, or by email at jobsireland@welfare.ie.
Jobseekers can also view CE vacancies online. Eligible candidates are referred to sponsors by case officers in the local Intreo office. My Department continues to refer candidates, so I would advise sponsors who have any recruitment concerns to contact their local Intreo office.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
