Vol. 571 No. 2
205 Mr. Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the number of places that will be retained at the end of 2003 in respect of community employment schemes under the aegis of FÁS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21382/03]
The average participation rate on the community employment, CE, programme is expected to be in the region of 22,500 during 2003 with a projected year end participation rate of 20,000. Decisions on the future participation rate and structure of CE will be taken in the context of the Estimates provision for 2004, having regard to the outcome of the current review process under way. In this regard, an overall appraisal of active labour market programmes is being carried out under the aegis of the Standing Committee on the Labour Market, which is chaired by my Department. In addition, a cross-departmental senior officials group has been asked to consider options for the future of CE, taking account of the link with the provision of community services. FÁS is also currently completing an internal review of CE, which is well advanced and should be finalised shortly.
