Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 June 2012
124 Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Social Protection the options available to persons on lone parent allowance who wish to apply for the JobBridge scheme but who are struggling with child care costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31507/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Internship Scheme (JobBridge) provides internship opportunities of either 6 or 9 months for unemployed individuals in organisations in the private, public and community voluntary sectors. At present, it is limited to individuals who are currently in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance, One Parent Family Payment, Disability Allowance or signing for Social Insurance Contribution Credits for a total of three months (78 days) or more in the last six months. Participation on the Scheme is voluntary.
The Scheme has made significant progress to-date. Over 8,000, internship placements have commenced since the launch of the Scheme in July 2011. There are currently 4,896 interns undertaking internship placements and there are in excess of 2,000 internship posts currently advertised on the JobBridge websitewww.jobbridge.ie. Currently, while there is no childcare support for individuals taking part in the Scheme, the host organisations may have childcare facilities available.
