Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 May 2020
1146. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if a person (details supplied) will be removed from the commitments of JobPath due to their circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4056/20]
View answerJobPath is a part of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection’s activation service the key objective of which is to assist jobseekers of all skills and abilities to secure full-time sustainable employment.
All Jobseekers on the Live Register must be capable of; available for and actively seeking full time employment, they are also required to engage with the Department’s activation services. The Social Welfare (Consolidated) Act 2005, as amended, specifies that participation in activation meetings is mandatory for those in receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance.
The JobPath providers are obliged to provide a baseline level of support to each participant but are free to adapt that support in individual cases, provided that it is not unduly onerous. The JobPath contracts provide that a person should not have to travel more than 60 minutes in normal circumstances to attend an appointment. Where a person has transport difficulties, the JobPath provider can assist the person with travel arrangements tailoring the service around their particular travel requirements.
JobPath providers give an immediate reimbursement for travel expenses upon production of a ticket/ evidence of travel. Please note that fares are covered for the cheapest travel method available and taxi fares are generally not refunded. Clients should present their ticket/receipt and there should be no requirement to contact the Community Welfare Service in respect of JobPath costs.
Currently, in line with all contracted activation services provided on behalf of the Department, the JobPath providers are delivering tele services only thereby negating the need for customers to attend the provider's offices. This matter is under continual review and will be revised in line with general public health advice.
Any person who is experiencing difficulties with transport which is affecting their ability to engage with the JobPath service should discuss the matter with their JobPath provider so that a solution can be found.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
