Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is probably aware that since he put down the question, events have moved on a little. Local officers from my Department have been in ongoing communication with the Southill Pathways to Employment scheme. I am pleased to advise that they have resolved the matter and obtained adequate insurance for the scheme.

By way of background, the responsibility for acquiring insurance cover for community employment, CE, schemes rests with the CE sponsoring organisation as the legal employer. The annual budget provided to CE schemes includes an amount to cover consumable services and materials, including insurance, necessary for the effective operation of the project. The Deputy is aware that in last year's budget, the capitation grant was increased. My Department has become aware in recent times of an increase in insurance premiums for CE schemes. A number of representatives from CE schemes whom I have met since my appointment in June have brought this to my attention. The main reason cited for this is an increase in claims frequency over recent years by such schemes. In this context, schemes are asked to be especially mindful of their obligations under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.

It is important to be aware that CE employers are at all times independent contractors for all purposes and, in those circumstances, it is not possible for the Department to become an insurance agent. Adequate insurance is required to cover schemes' legal liabilities. My Department recommends that schemes seek alternative quotes to ensure they get value for money, as has happened in this case. Also, if CE schemes are not filling their contracted number of participants, it is recommended that they align their insurance requirement with actual participant numbers. We are all aware a number of CE schemes around the country have a number of vacancies. In any cases where a scheme is experiencing particular difficulties, as this one was, the sponsor should contact the local Intreo centre or my office, where assistance will be given in as much as is possible.

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