Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 12 Apr 2001

Vol. 534 No. 5

Written Answers - Community Employment Schemes.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

77 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the fact that, since 1 April 2001, the gap between social welfare rates and the rates obtaining for community employment participants has narrowed; the steps which are proposed to address this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11181/01]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney):

Rates for participants on the community employment programme, CEP, have been increased effective from 26 March 2001 in line with recent social welfare increases. The basis adult rate is now £104.75 and the rate for participants with adult dependants is £158.75. The gap between unemployment payments and the rates payable on community employment remains unchanged.