Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)

It seems there was a misunderstanding in the representation of the role of Citywide because, while it was consulted, it did not represent the other groups involved. However the misunderstanding occurred, CASPr has stated it was not consulted. We need to clarify this matter, as there may still be scope for consultation in this respect.

The Minister of State has stated there is a draft referral protocol, whereby there will be three pilot community employment rehabilitation sites under a FÁS plan. I do not know what the text is and whether significant new information or a change of practice is involved. However, I would like to be made aware of what is contained in the protocol, if possible.

There may have been a communications problem, through no fault of the Minister of State, the Minister or the Department but perhaps as a result of a misunderstanding as to the representation offered by Citywide which does not speak for a range of other special projects, although that might have been the presumption. Perhaps some level of consultation could take place at this time.

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