Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 766: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the Disability Act which claims to protect and develop services for people with disabilities; if he is aware that it is unsatisfactory that the most vital and basic services are being delivered by community employment scheme participants; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that the use of community employment employees is no longer sufficient or appropriate to supply necessary services to groups (details supplied) due to the non-continuance of service as there is a time limit on these schemes; if he is further aware that 3,000 people weekly rely on these services; his plans to rectify this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2146/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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This Government is committed to addressing the needs of those with disabilities and, in particular, to removing the obstacles which make it difficult for people with disabilities to participate in the labour market. Community employment is an active labour market programme designed to provide eligible long-term unemployed people and other disadvantaged persons, including those with a disability, with an opportunity to engage in work and training within their communities on a fixed-term basis. Experience has shown that CE helps unemployed people to re-enter the active workforce by breaking the cycle of unemployment through a return to work routine. It also assists in the enhancement and development of both their technical and personal skills.

In addition, CE enables the provision of a wide range of social and community services at local level which augment and support statutory service arrangements. Optimum benefit is derived when CE schemes are aligned with services provided by the Department of Health and Children. I am informed that many CE participants go on to become qualified professional workers in selected employments such as child care and as personal care assistants.

The ring fencing and prioritisation of places for health related services, child care and drugs task force clients is in place for the past five years. As a result, CE participation within these sectors has and continues to be maintained at a constant and supportive level.