Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Penrose is correct. I am particularly looking out for schemes that provide important services locally, for example, cutting the grass in clubs and meals on wheels and in other areas where I do not want to see service provision damaged. I encourage supervisors to consider people who are harder to reach or who find it hard to take part in these schemes. Very good and qualified people were often available during the recession but they are no longer available as they have gone back to work. It now falls on CE scheme supervisors and others to make a greater effort to encourage people who are very long-term unemployed, those with mental health issues and those with disabilities in order to try to get them on the schemes. I know they are harder to work with but they are the ones who need the help the most.

It was mentioned that the additional payment is very small, which I acknowledge. In addition, the cost of travelling to and from the scheme, particularly in rural areas, can be very significant. I am not in a position to increase that this year but it is something I will certainly consider for the next budget.

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