Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

We agree with what the Deputy has said. It is on that basis that we will change the scheme. The Minister, Deputy Hanafin, has facilitated us in the context of volunteerism, for example. She has changed the rules so that one no longer has to be continually available for and genuinely seeking work, which is an issue raised by the voluntary sector. The Deputy was right in what he said about other sectors. We have had a number of representations from people in the caring sector and other sectors who would like to participate in the scheme, but are restricted because they have ten employees. We are examining how we can change those restrictions to allow these things to happen. It will not be perfect because some people will say it will cost them to go to work. Most people are anxious to go to work. It is by interfacing with the labour market that one can find out if there is a job available. We are cognisant of that. Very valuable work can be done. I hope we will take a national perspective on this and that we will not create other impediments as a consequence.

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