Seanad debates

Wednesday, 13 November 2002

Community Employment Schemes: Motion.

 

The policy change being brought about is very significant. As everyone is aware, the scheme started as a labour market programme to deal with long-term unemployment when it was our most significant problem. A range of significant community services have grown up as a result of the schemes. Consequently, as part of the policy change, I intend to copperfasten good community services which can be supported by community employment. No more than any other job the State provides, there must be cost efficiency and cost effectiveness. We cannot support community employment schemes to provide community services where they are not being provided effectively and efficiently or where there is not a contribution from the community towards their cost. Unfortunately, volunteerism has almost ceased to exist. Volunteerism is no longer required because we have been able to place people on such schemes. The vitally important principle of volunteerism must be brought back.

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