Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 3 May 2001

Vol. 535 No. 3

Written Answers - Community Employment Schemes.

Gerry Reynolds

Ceist:

13 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the adverse consequences which will accrue in the context of community employment schemes in so far as any enforced lapse between one scheme and the next with particular reference to the situation in areas of rural disadvantage which rely on schemes to help assist in the transition from a dependence on an agriculture based economy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12405/01]

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

Following the Government decision in 1999 to restructure the community employment, CE, programme, participation is being reduced on a phased basis to a target level of 28,000 by 2003. In order to administer the programme within target participation levels, FÁS find it necessary, occasionally, to introduce a break before projects are renewed.

FÁS prioritise projects based on the services being provided and on the particular needs identified in the community. In this regard, rural disadvantage is taken into account when prioritising the renewal of projects, and approving the allocation of CE places.