Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I appreciate the Minister's response. There is a realisation that the group of people of whom I speak fall between all stools.

I am aware of the work placement programme but it is not geared toward graduates. There is a real need for graduate internships. Graduates, particularly in technical or scientific areas, de-skill very quickly if they do not get work opportunities. I am delighted the Minister recognises the need to be flexible and may respond in time to this group.

I take it that the requirement is that an applicant must have made a PRSI contribution in the previous two years.

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