Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 May 2012
122 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Social Protection when she will report on the outcome of the review of community employment schemes operated by companies (details supplied) in County Mayo with particular emphasis on current and future funding of the schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25696/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraA review of the financial resources of all CE Schemes was undertaken following the reductions in the Training and Materials Grant on CE, as announced in Budget 2012. To ensure a standard approach, templates were developed and issued to all CE projects to complete. Discussions were held between local CE Sponsors and the Departmental Officers responsible for the scheme under local management.
This review is looking at the income and funding of sponsoring organisations in terms of their ability to continue to deliver the programme. It's also looking at organisations that receive funding from a multiplicity of state agencies. Alternative sources of support are being examined, particularly with reference to funding from other state agencies to avoid duplication.
The review will also seek to establish if income is generated by scheme activity and the potential for the utilisation of these funds to cover project costs.
Following a detailed examination of the recommendations of this review, the Department will be in a position to ensure the best outcome for CE schemes and their participants, taking account both of the large amounts of money spent on CE schemes and the valuable contribution that they make to their communities.
The review is currently nearing completion and recommendations will be considered by the Department. CE Schemes will be advised of the outcome of the review directly.
123 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon is eligible to partake in a community employment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25697/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Community Employment (CE) Scheme has two options, namely:
Part Time Integration Option, which is a CE option with a maximum duration of 1 year and is for persons who have been in receipt of qualifying payment for 12 months or more.
Part Time Job Option, which is a CE option with a maximum duration of 3 years and is for persons who have been in receipt of qualifying payments for a period of 36 months or more. Contracts are subject to renewal, which is not automatic.
With effect from the 3rd April 2000, participation on CE is limited, in a person's lifetime to:
A total of 3 years (156 weeks) for persons under 55 years of age.
A total of 6 years (312 weeks) for persons aged between 55 years and 65.
The person concerned is eligible to apply for a position on a Community Employment Scheme and should be advised to contact his local Employment Services office to register and progress his application.
