Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

Funding for CE in 2006 has been provided with a view to maintaining overall numbers on FÁS schemes at 2005 levels. Currently, over 22,000 people are employed on CE schemes nationally, a figure which has been maintained throughout 2006. FÁS is hopeful it will fill its full allocation in 2006. In delivering these places, FÁS operates flexibility in the management of this allocation in order to maximise progression to the labour market while at the same time facilitating the support of community services. This provision of places is managed through a standardised application process between regional FÁS offices and local sponsor-community organisations and any issues regarding the allocation of places are dealt with in this context. FÁS makes every effort to ensure differing levels of demand between neighbouring schemes are equalised.

CE still aims to remain an active labour market programme with the emphasis on progression into employment. The programme is managed within this context, with consideration given to the availability of resources and the needs of participants and the community. However, I will raise the case highlighted by Deputy Gay Mitchell with the Minister and ask him to review the situation pertaining to the individual in question.

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