Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 May 2017
285. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Social Protection the way in which sponsors for community employment schemes are chosen; the person or body that supervises and ensures best practice for the choosing of sponsors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21553/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe aim of Community Employment (CE) is to enhance the employability and mobility of disadvantaged and unemployed persons by providing work experience and training opportunities for them within their community.
CE schemes are typically sponsored by groups/organisations wishing to benefit their local community. It has been a long standing requirement in the CE procedures, that the CE sponsor must form a company limited by guarantee with no share capital. All sponsors of CE schemes must adhere to clear procedures and processes, set out by my Department. The DSP Officer must satisfy themselves that a sponsor is in full compliance with all Departmental procedures and regulations.
My Department undertakes periodic Programme & Training Monitoring visits of all CE schemes (at least one per year), in accordance with standard operating procedures. There is also a separate comprehensive monitor carried out on the financial aspects of each CE project every year. It is incumbent on every sponsor to be compliant in all aspects of the operation of CE. Schemes that are found to be non-compliant as a result of a monitoring visit are given an opportunity to rectify any issues arising. My Department reserves the right to terminate the agreement should the sponsor fail to operate and administer the scheme in accordance with the conditions of the Agreement.
I trust this clarifies the mater for the Deputy.
