John Brady
Question:614. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her views on a matter regarding JobPath providers (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5163/19]
View answerTuesday, 5 February 2019
Questions (614)
Written answers
There are no barriers to the way by which jobseekers can source employment. The JobPath service helps and supports their clients to identify and pursue suitable job opportunities themselves and the personal adviser will provide any appropriate support that the person may require, from preparing their CV and assisting with the job application to financial assistance for clothing or transport costs at interview stage or in the first days of employment.
The JobPath providers are required to offer in-work support to the person for up to twelve months while they remain in employment. This includes scheduled contact with the person as well as ad-hoc contact should they need immediate support or advice, this may be particularly important for those in temporary or part-time employment to provide the specific support needed to progress to more sustainable permanent employment.
A person is not under any obligation to provide employment or employer details to the JobPath provider but, if they wish to do so and avail of the in-employment support offered, all information will be treated confidentially.
The primary purpose of the activation services provided by my Department, including the JobPath service is to assist and support jobseekers to look for and sustain full time employment. It is worth noting that, of the approximately 206k persons who have been referred to the JobPath service to date, 52% have been unemployed for more than 3 years. This service offers people who have been long term unemployed intensive one-to one support from a personal adviser.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.