Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I agree with this. The Deputy would be aware that there were occasions in the past when a company would seek a forklift driver but would be sent a painter or somebody in an entirely different trade. It is a case for the personnel working in the new sectors, both in the Department of Education and Skills in so far as training is concerned, and in the Department of Social Protection where the categories, competencies and experiences of people are known. They must match these elements.

It is most unfortunate when people say they have looked for a job for two or five years and there is nothing for that person. As the Deputy has correctly noted, if they are asked about experience, competencies and what they would like to do, they can be directed to upskilling or a change of direction. It is a case of being imaginative and responsive to the human resources that exist. Rather than referring to this as a live register issue or the number of people unemployed - that figure is way too high - we should consider the resource of people available for employment. I hope that under the new Pathways to Work scheme and training facility in the Department of Education and Skills, the matches can be attained far more quickly. As the Deputy knows, a job can transform a life and bring a whole new change of attitude and confidence. That is where we must focus our energy and activity for the period ahead.

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