Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 November 2016
200. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans to revise the criteria for participation in the community employment scheme, particularly to meet the needs of rural communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32615/16]
Amharc ar fhreagra201. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans to increase the number of community employment schemes places available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32614/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 200 and 201 together.
As the Deputy is aware, the aim of the community employment (CE) programme is to enhance the employability of disadvantaged and unemployed people by providing work experience and training opportunities for them within their communities. As of the end of September, there were nearly 22,200 participants on various community employment (CE) schemes throughout the country. The CE programme has a budget of €376.5 m in 2016.
With reducing numbers on the Live Register, demand for CE places may vary and I do not consider that an increase in the overall numbers available under CE is justified at this time.
The Department keeps the eligibility criteria for CE places under review to ensure that these are effective in targeting long-term unemployed jobseekers and to ensure that they remain fit for purpose and that there is the maximum utilisation of places.
As the Deputy may be aware, a review of CE schemes was conducted by the Department. I met with my senior officials who have responsibility for CE schemes at the end of August to discuss the findings of this review. It is hoped that I will be in a position to bring a memo to Government by the end of the year.
Finally, with regard to rural communities, it should be noted that 500 additional places under the Rural Social Scheme were announced as part of Budget 2017. My Department will be working with the various implementing bodies over the coming weeks with a view to rolling out these places as early as possible in 2017.
