Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am glad the Deputy is so supportive of activation. As the Deputy is probably aware, at this point in time, the amount spent by the Department of Social Protection on activation is approximately €1 billion. It is a very significant increase at a time when budgets are under severe pressure. That €1 billion does not include family income supplement for families with children on low income. This year I estimate that we will spend a further €280 million on family income supplement. The matters which the Deputy raised are at the centre of activation.

I was glad to hear the Deputy refer to the Tús scheme. At any one time, there are approximately 7,700 people on the Tús scheme. I will ask the new Aire Stáit to look at all of these areas. I meet people all the time who have taken up a Tús scheme place and, by and large, they are anxious to contribute. Sometimes people talk about people being obliged to get involved in schemes. My experience is entirely contrary - I see the Deputy nodding - and there is a queue of people who are anxious to take up places, get active and participate in the community. Obviously, it is subject to overall budgetary requirements but I am with the Deputy on that.

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