Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

While I appreciate that the Minister of State recognises the dual role and the fact that many CE schemes provide a community service, I believe some CE schemes are providing State services. A Meals on Wheels service is not equivalent to a CE scheme in a football club, GAA club or community hall. It is, and should be, a direct front-line service provided by the State. In many ways we are exploiting people who are on a training opportunity. I am a former Tús supervisor so I do not use the word "exploit" easily because the opportunity is extraordinarily valuable for everyone on a Tús or CE scheme. However, we should ensure we provide additional supports from the Department of Health so that the role is recognised and supported financially.

I have become aware of an information technology glitch that is delaying PUP arrears payments. I have been contacted by several people. Will the Minister shed some light on that? When will all the PUP arrears be paid? How many are on that list? She can come back to me afterwards.

In recent days we have all come to realise that this lockdown will last longer, yet, for some, it looks longer again. I am talking about those who work in aviation and airports. It is not only pilots who have made representations to the House but everyone in the airport community right down to people who work in shops and so on. Will the Department consider a specific intervention for them? It seems 5 March does not look like any kind of deadline for them and there is such uncertainty. We know that we are in a transition and need to reduce carbon. Airline travel will be reduced over time, hopefully. We need to have a just transition for all airport workers to ensure they are supported.

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