Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 February 2018
291. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the reason it is not possible for persons on community employment schemes to stay on them in cases in which both they and their employer are satisified with the arrangement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6247/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides a range of activation supports catering for long-term unemployed jobseekers and those most distant from the labour market. These supports include employment schemes such as Community Employment (CE).
The purpose of CE is break the cycle of unemployment; maintain work readiness; and improve a participants opportunity of returning to the labour market. Participation on CE is intended to be for a temporary fixed term. The participation limits aim to ensure the benefit of participation on a work scheme is available to the widest possible number of jobseekers. In addition, it is generally recognised that shorter duration schemes are more beneficial for individuals in getting people back into mainstream employment. Longer duration schemes are seen to "lock-in "the unemployed and recycle most of them back into unemployment.
Employment schemes are constantly kept under review by my Department. I am currently reviewing the rules governing the provision for over 62’s and I expect this review to be completed shortly.
If a CE scheme is experiencing any difficulties officials in my Department’s Intreo offices are available to assist Sponsors at a local level.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
