asked the Minister for Labour if he is satisfied with the operation of the social employment scheme, and in particular whether it fully protects the rights of the participants.
Written Answers. - Social Employment Scheme
122.
The social employment scheme is the most significant step in the Government's strategy to assist the long term unemployed to make a contribution to social and cultural development. By mid 1986 the Government's target of 10,000 SES participants had been surpassed.
I have been particularly heartened by the degree of social solidarity reflected in the work being undertaken. The quality and range of many of the projects has also been impressive. The scheme has been able to tap the pride and imagination of whole communities in the interests of providing employment for those out of work.
One of the most satisfying aspects of the SES to date has been the high level of job satisfaction which most of the participants are reported to have experienced while employed on the scheme. I am confident that the rights of these participants are fully protected under the terms of the scheme.