Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)

Aontaím leis an Teachta go gcaithfimid an obair ag chur dínn agus an focal a chur amach. We did that this year through the summer after we relaunched the wage subsidy. We promoted it considerably and used targeted promotion to employers to encourage them to take on persons with disabilities and look at the opportunities that would bring to their businesses. In relation to the partial capacity scheme and the wage subsidy scheme, we have allocated an additional €3.7 million. We have also expanded the wage subsidy scheme to the community and voluntary sector and to the commercial State-sponsored sector to open up opportunities possibly on a more local basis than is currently the case.

In July 2024, we launched the new work and access scheme, which offers seven supports to improve access in workplaces for those with a disability. Funding is available for communications support, work equipment, workplace adaptation and training. Jobseekers, employees, self-employed people and employers may apply for those supports. We are very conscious of the need to continue to promote the schemes and this is something I want to focus on through next year.

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