At this point in the year which is only in the middle of the fifth month, spending under the various subheads of the Vote for my Department is generally in accord with the published estimates. In accordance with normal practice the activities under various programmes are being kept under review which may lead to a revision of spending in some areas. However, I can confirm for the Deputy that the Government has made further funds available to increase participation on the social employment scheme which is administered by FÁS to 15,500. The estimate provision is £83.811 million for an average participation this year of 13,500. Consideration is being given to making further funds available for this purpose.