Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2015
218. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the number of jobseekers that have been employed under the JobsPlus scheme since it was commenced; if she will provide a breakdown of the numbers in the 12 months to two years unemployed category and the two years or more unemployed category; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2782/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraJobsPlus provides a direct monthly financial incentive to employers who recruit employees from the Live Register and those transitioning into employment. It provides employers with two levels of payment - €7,500 or €10,000 over two years - paid in monthly instalments provided the employment is maintained. The rate of payment depends on the length of time the person is unemployed.
Since July 2013, 13,083 jobseekers have confirmed their eligibility for JobsPlus. Of these, 4,855 have gone on to take up employment or are approved to take up employment, with 3,492 employers as of 15 January 2015. Of those who commenced employment with the support of JobsPlus, 3,026 or 62% had been unemployed for more than two years prior to taking up employment. The remaining 1,829 had been unemployed for between 12 months to two years.
