Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

Under the national employment action plan, NEAP, all people between the ages of 18 and 65 years who are approaching three months on the live register are identified by the Department of Social and Family Affairs and referred to FÁS for interview with a view to assisting them enter or re-enter the labour market. The NEAP process is a key element in addressing the progression needs of those on the live register. The plan was introduced in 1998 and implemented on a phased basis using various age and duration thresholds.

Each month, a statistical report published by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is produced outlining the main outcomes for those who have been referred since the beginning of the year. Information on outcomes is based primarily on FÁS caseload records of interactions with those interviewed. This is supplemented by information on reasons for leaving the live register, given by individuals to my own Department, where this information has not been communicated directly to FÁS by the individuals concerned.

The figures referred to are taken from the NEAP monthly progress report for November 2008. The report covers all referrals for the period January to October 2008 and is based on known outcomes as at the end of November 2008. Of those referred in that period, 56% had left the live register by the end of November 2008. Data relating to years 2000 to 2007 is contained in the Department's annual statistical report and the figure of 56% for 2008 compares favourably with the rates of previous years, particularly given the current economic climate.

People remain on the live register while engaged with FÁS under the action plan until they take up offers of employment or training. If they do not attend for interview with FÁS or, having engaged with FÁS, decline offers of employment or training, their cases are referred back to the social welfare local office for review to determine if they continue to satisfy the conditions for receipt of unemployment payments. People who for valid reasons are unable to avail of the opportunities for placement in employment, training or education provided by FÁS continue to receive payment. In such cases, the Department's facilitator service is available to assist them in identifying barriers to participation and exploring alternative progression routes.

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