Marie Moloney (Labour) | Oireachtas source

Like Deputy Jim Daly, I would like to know why the JobsPlus scheme is being restricted to 2,500 applicants. It is cost neutral and will probably even save money. If the people concerned are on unemployment benefit, they get more than the €7,500 offered. I cannot understand why it is limited to 2,500 applicants. I know the Minister is saying it is just starting off, but the scheme has great potential and we should develop it more.

The rent allowance function carried out by the Department of Social Protection is, I hope, being transferred to the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. Will it reduce the social welfare budget? Will it reduce the need for cuts to be made? I know these cuts might be introduced by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, but the most vulnerable individuals are currently in the Department of Social Protection. If the budget is transferred, will it reduce the need for cuts to be made within that Department?