Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

There is no confusion. If the debate on this issue is being confused, I suggest the Department of Social Protection is responsible for that. I am getting my information from the Department, just as anyone who is asked to participate in this scheme will do. One of the questions in the question and answer document to which I referred relates to whether participants have to adhere to the work that is set out for them when they are first recruited. The answer makes it clear that there is some flexibility in this regard, as all areas of local authority activity can be considered. It is not confined to areas which are not currently covered by the present workforce. All areas of local authority activity can be considered. I reiterate that those who want to contribute to this debate should inform themselves, rather than spinning falsehoods about what this scheme can and cannot do.

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