Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 June 2012
338 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Social Protection if consideration will be given to allowing participants on internship programmes to complete three years in their placement in view of the fact that most companies seek three years experience in a field from prospective employees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26536/12]
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 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. As at 24 May 2012, 7,316 internship placements have commenced since the launch of the Scheme in July 2011. There are currently 4,825 interns undertaking internship placements. In addition, there are in excess of 1,800 internship posts currently advertised on the JobBridge website,www.jobbridge.ie. Our records indicate that almost 40% of the finishers to date have progressed directly into employment on immediate completion of their internship with either their JobBridge Host Organisation or another company. It is important to note that this data does not take account of an intern who may have secured employment in the subsequent weeks or months after completing their internship. A picture of the career paths of JobBridge interns will become clearer following the independent evaluation of the scheme which is being undertaken by Indecon International Economic Consultants. Given the successes to date of the Scheme including the encouraging levels of progression into employment within the six or nine month internships period, it is not currently proposed to extend the duration of the Scheme beyond the current duration. My Department will continue to monitor all aspects of the Scheme on an ongoing basis.
