Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have a lot of questions on the topic but I have broken them down into two for the Minister. With regard to CE participants, many organisations desperately need such people for Meals on Wheels and other projects. Please God as we move out of this Covid pandemic we will need them further because the projects will not have the funds to take on staff. People who are aged between 55 and 60 are now limited strictly to three years on a CE scheme. During Covid, this should be extended because organisations are in desperate need for these workers to continue. These workers will find it almost impossible to get employment elsewhere. Is the Minister looking into that?

Outdoor businesses pay taxes and have complied with all of the regulations but they still cannot receive CRSS payments. This is totally unacceptable. I am referring to caravan and campsites and companies that provide outdoor activities in west Cork. Surely these businesses are entitled to CRSS payments. Why are they not included? I would appreciate an answer to these two questions.

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