Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 161: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will provide details of the new measure announced in the 7 April 2009 supplementary budget regarding getting graduates back to work through work experience programmes (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15797/09]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 165: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the location, when and the way the 2,000 work experience scheme places announced by her are to be allocated; the person who is to provide them; the types of work experience involved; the criteria for qualification; and the way interested people can apply or obtain further information. [15950/09]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 161 and 165 together.

The Work Experience Scheme, which was announced in the Supplementary Budget, is being established to provide 2,000 six-month places to individuals who are unemployed and it will also include the placement of graduates. This scheme will provide invaluable work experience to individuals who are unemployed, who have just left college or have very limited experience of the workplace.

The places will be created on a cost neutral basis, as the State's payment will be equivalent to social welfare Job Seeker Benefit/Allowance weekly rates. Discussions are ongoing between my Department and the Department of Social and Family Affairs and it is expected that these discussions will be finalised in the coming weeks when further details will be available pertaining to this scheme.