Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2012
421 Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider amending the JobBridge internship scheme in order that people who were previously self-employed can participate in this beneficial initiative; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20174/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Internship Scheme was launched on 1 July 2011. It provides internship opportunities of either 6 or 9 months for unemployed individuals on the Live Register, at all skills levels. The aim of JobBridge is to assist individuals in breaking the cycle where they are unable to get a job without experience. It provides them with an opportunity to gain valuable experience, relevant knowledge and skills within a working environment. The Scheme is open to organisations in the private, public and community or voluntary sectors.
The Scheme has made significant progress to-date. 6,475 jobseekers have commenced their internship since 1 July 2011. There are currently 4,522 jobseekers undertaking internship opportunities. In addition, there are 1,989 internship opportunities available across a wide number of occupational sectors and geographic areas being hosted on the website. All these opportunities are advertised on the JobBridge website www.jobbridge.ie.
Individuals who were previously self-employed may qualify for a social welfare payment such as Jobseekers Allowance. Additionally, in cases where they do not qualify for a social welfare payment it may be possible to sign on for credits. In such cases, these individuals would be eligible to participate on JobBridge. My Department continues to monitor and review the operation of the JobBridge scheme including its eligibility criteria on an ongoing basis.
