asked the Minister for Labour the total number of young people employed each year under the youth experience training programme since it was initiated by his Department; the number of companies by whom these people were employed; the minimum and maximum periods for which these young people were retained in these companies; the amount of money expended each year on this programme; the work force capacity of the various companies in which these young people work; the number of companies constantly using this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Work Experience Programme.
442.
The total number of young people (37,331) who entered the National Manpower Service Work Experience Programme since its inception in September 1978, is as follows:
|
Year |
Number |
|
1978 |
1,685 |
|
1979 |
4,958 |
|
1980 |
4,680 |
|
1981 |
6,453 |
|
1982 |
10,541 |
|
1983 |
9,014 |
—during that period approximately 13,920 companies provided the work experience.
—the maximum period for which the young persons participate on the work experience programme is 26 weeks but a participant may withdraw from the programme at any time.
—the total expended on the programme up to the end of December 1983, was £18.8m — expended each year as follows:
|
Year |
£ |
|
1978 |
109,582 |
|
1979 |
1,573,929 |
|
1980 |
2,125,867 |
|
1981 |
2,396,435 |
|
1982 |
5,048,620 |
|
1983 |
7,593,228 |
—information concerning the total work-force capacity of companies involved and the number of companies who participate on a regular basis is not available. Guidelines for the operation of the scheme have been revised and include provisions to prevent continuous participation and any displacement of permanent employees.
The work experience programme was designed to assist first-time job seekers to gain first hand and practical experience of the world of work by placing them in employers premises for a maximum of twenty-six weeks. It was envisaged that the experience gained would enhance their opportunities of securing suitable employment. Indications are that the programme has proved successful, with approximately 60 per cent of participants securing permanent employment following their participation — about half with the firms which initially provided the work experience. I am satisfied that the programme is being operated satisfactorily to the advantage of the young persons who participate.