Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 April 2024
172. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the options available for a first-time job applicant (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18701/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSearching for your first job or looking for a new job can be challenging. The Government provides a number of supports to help individuals on their journey to employment.
JobsIreland.ie is the Public Employment Service of the Department of Social Protection. The website provides jobseekers with free job search and tools to create a profile to match their skills and experience with jobs. This Government service includes a network of staff providing expert guidance and resources, who can help individuals to create their CV, draft a cover letter, complete an application form, and find their ideal job using the latest technology. JobsIreland.ie also provides tips and advice on preparing for an interview, developing skills for an online interview, working remotely, and taking part in virtual job fairs.
Intreo is a single point of contact for all employment and income supports and services. Knowledgeable staff at your local Intreo centre can provide expert advice on developing a curriculum vitae, gaining important work experience, finding suitable training, upskilling through education, or deciding to start your own business and work for yourself.
Intreo can also help individuals access a range of work experience programmes to gain valuable real-world experience to help move to a new job. The Work Placement Experience Programme is a 6-month, 30 hour per week voluntary work experience programme. The programme is for jobseekers that are currently in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment and who have been unemployed for six months or more. Other programmes such as the Community Employment Programme, TÚS, the Rural Social Scheme, and the Voluntary Work Option allows jobseekers an opportunity to build valuable workplace skills and experience.
Intreo’s EmployAbility services provide an employment support service for people with a health condition, injury, illness, or disability. It is also a recruitment advice service for the business community and gives employers access to a pool of potential employees. EmployAbility services also deliver in employment support for both the employer and the employee, a professional job-matching service to help ensure successful recruitment, and advice and information on additional employment supports and grants.
