Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. McKeon for his presentation. I must concur as much of the feedback I receive is very positive on the question of building activation infrastructure, Intreo offices, engagement with case managers and trying to match people who find themselves unemployed with an opportunity to get back into the work force, training and education. I compliment the Department and I have had dealings with Mr. Lynch which have been helpful and useful.

There is an area that comes to my attention every now and then. This is where people might be illiterate and cannot read or write. They might suddenly become unemployed.

They could be asked to partake in a particular course or do whatever and it is not suitable. The person is embarrassed that he or she cannot read or write, and it is not something that he or she would be public about. Has the Department any policy to deal with such cases? It is prevalent, certainly in my clinics. I would have cases where the spouse of an individual will come and tell me that this is a real issue. I would also have cases where engagement in formal education for particular cohorts is not an option. They would be better placed if they were working manually. The formal educational setting may not suit them. The witnesses might share their views on that.