Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her comments. The guarantee is important for young people around the country. Last week, I spoke in a school in Ashbourne to approximately 80 young students. One of their concerns was the economy. I was able to tell them about our great progress in reducing unemployment levels. As I am sure the Minister is aware, the most recent figures for Kells show that the number of people unemployed has decreased by almost 300 in the past year. We must recognise that progress is being made, although we must do more.

I welcome the Minister's comments on the roll-out of the scheme across County Meath and the rest of the country by the end of 2014. That is positive news. The many people who are keenly watching the scheme will be glad to hear it. Will the scheme be targeted at those areas where trends in unemployment levels are greater than elsewhere? Can we ensure that the people and areas that need the scheme most are prioritised? Are there plans in that regard?

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