John Brady
Ceist:260. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Social Protection the way in which fitness to work will be assessed under the fit for work scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28099/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 4 October 2016
Ceisteanna (260)
Freagraí scríofa
The programme for a partnership government provides for a range of actions that are designed to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. One of these actions is a proposal for the Departments of Health and Social Protection to work together to pursue a “Fit for Work Programme” to support more people with an illness or disability to get back to work through early intervention. While specific proposals around the design and operation of a “Fit for Work Programme” require further development and examination, my Department has commenced engagement with the Department of Health and other stakeholders including the Department of Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and the Health and Safety Authority. This engagement will continue into 2017.
I can assure the Deputy that the development of early interventions and return to work practices as part of the programme will be consistent with my Department’s approach to illness/disability income support, which aims to reduce the number of people progressing to chronic disability and long-term social welfare dependency.