Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 March 2012
41 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the way her review of community employment is progressing; and if she is concerned that the shortening of the duration of CE announced in Pathways to Work will adversely impact on the quality and level of training qualifications that can be delivered to CE participants. [11870/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe process of reviewing each Community Employment (CE) scheme is well advanced. All schemes have been communicated with and met by an officer of the Department. Returns from these meetings are now being examined on a regional basis in terms of the funding requirements and the savings that can be achieved within the limits set down by the Department. These outcomes will be analysed and will form the basis of the review findings which will be available from the end of March. Due to the widespread consultation and information being provided, it is not possible to make any recommendations or decisions until the process is completed. Under Pathways to Work I am prioritising one-third of the places on CE schemes towards a shorter more focused active labour market intervention. This will be undertaken in conjunction with the wider policy review of CE schemes currently underway in the Department.
