Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 490: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will consider extending the maximum period for participation in a community employment scheme past its present three year limit; if he will extend the former under 55 years of age participants to six years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10391/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

FÁS employment programmes, which comprise community employment social economy and job initiative, will provide a total of 25,000 places in 2005. Community employment schemes offer work experience and training opportunities for the long-term unemployed and other disadvantaged groups with the aim of assisting participants to progress to a job in the open labour market. There are specific arrangements to facilitate persons with disabilities availing of opportunities on these schemes.

I have reviewed current policy on the operation of the FÁS employment schemes, and announced that with effect from 10 November 2004 the three year cap would be removed for participants aged 55 or over. Such persons are now eligible to participate on community employment schemes for a maximum of six years. This arrangement will in particular benefit persons with disabilities. I have no plans to make further changes to community employment scheme eligibility criteria.