Holly Cairns
Question:499. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of the JobPath programme; and if it will be continued after October 2021. [46146/21]
View answerTuesday, 28 September 2021
Questions (499)
Written answers
In October 2020, I announced an extension of referrals for a further twelve months to the end of 2021 for all contracted service partners including JobPath, the Local Employment Services, Job Clubs and EmployAbility. These measures were taken in order to ensure the Public Employment Service had sufficient capacity to support those impacted by the pandemic with access to employment services during 2021.
While new referrals to the JobPath service are due to cease at the end of December, there will be a run out period enabling existing clients to complete their engagement with the service. In the interim, my Department is continuing to examine procurement options for the provision of all contracted employment services to ensure that the Public Employment Service has sufficient capacity in 2022 to support all those who need our assistance and help in securing new employment.