Vol. 461 No. 4
178 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Social Welfare the terms of the 1996 student summer job scheme; the plans, if any, he has to increase the level of payment over the 1995 level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3042/96]
The students' summer jobs scheme was a major success again last year and proved to be of significant benefit to local communities and voluntary groups. Many valuable projects have been undertaken by students over the past three years which would otherwise not have been carried out. Many complimentary letters have been received praising both the scheme and the quality of work carried out by the students. A survey of 500 sponsors and 400 students who participated in the 1995 scheme has endorsed the fact that both local communities and the students benefited enormously from the scheme.
Because of the success of the scheme and in recognition of the valuable contribution made by third level students to their communities, I propose to continue with the scheme this year. A comprehensive report on the 1995 scheme has just been completed in my Department and the guidelines for the 1996 scheme will be decided on the basis of the findings of this report.
Details of the 1996 scheme will be announced, when finalised, in the national papers inviting both sponsors and students to apply.
