Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 January 2021
170. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider permitting the extension of a placement on a community employment scheme for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4781/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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. The programme helps break the cycle of unemployment and improves a person’s chances of returning to the labour market. Participation on CE is intended to be for a temporary fixed-term. There are participation limits in place to ensure that as many unemployed people as possible are able to benefit from CE.
The person concerned was due to complete her time on CE on 27/11/2020, having reached the maximum eligible participation period of 6 years. However, due to level 5 restrictions her contract was extended to 26/03/2021.
During her time on CE, the person concerned received relevant work experience in the areas of reception and administration and completed training in Reception & Office skills. She is considered job ready.
On finishing CE, the person concerned may avail of my Department's Activation service who will work with her to ensure that the benefits of the experience and training she received during her time on CE are maximised. A Case Officer will assess her skills, experience, challenges and work goals and assist her in finding sustainable employment. This process will also help identify potential employment opportunities and offers support to her in overcoming any barriers to employment.
The priority for my Department is to ensure that all employment and activation programmes have the best outcomes for participants. Places on these work programmes will continue to be made available to support those who are long-term unemployed and furthest removed from the labour market, while maintaining the role of CE as an active labour market programme.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
