Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
804. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will engage with a disability service (details supplied) in order that community employment scheme participants can have their periods extended to ensure continuation of important services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11763/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Community Employment (CE) programme provides people who have been long term unemployed, with opportunities to gain work experience and training development so that they have increased options and prospects to re-enter the workforce.
During the COVID-19 restrictions introduced by the Government in March 2020, all CE participants due to leave CE had their time on the programme extended until 31/07/2020.
Now that the country has begun the process of restoring normal operation and in keeping with the Government’s Roadmap for re-opening society and businesses, the recruitment of CE participants has commenced. My Department has written to all CE Sponsoring Authorities regarding participants whose CE participation is due to end. Local Community Development Officers (CDOs) of the Department are in contact with schemes about phasing the departure of this group of CE participants in the period ahead.
The Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living can contact their local CDO, Aidan O’Callaghan (Aidan.OCallaghan@welfare.ie) or the Area Manager, Niamh Kelly (Niamh.Kelly1@welfare.ie ) with a view to discussing this matter further.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
