Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 216: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she has whole or partial responsibility for community employment schemes, Tús, job initiative schemes and if partial, for which parts. [7413/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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From 1st January 2011 policy and funding responsibility for FÁS functions in relation to employment and community employment services was transferred to this Department in accordance with the provisions of the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010. The FÁS schemes involved include the community employment programme and the job initiative scheme. FÁS remains responsible for the day to day operation of these schemes in accordance with the terms of a Service Agreement/Framework Document which it has concluded with the Department.

This is a transitional arrangement only. The Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2010 provides for the full transfer of employment and community employment services, including staff and other resources, from FÁS to this Department. These provisions of the Act are subject to a Commencement Order. Arrangements are currently being put in place to commence this stage of the transfer and integration process later in the year.

The Department is responsible for the implementation of Tús. This initiative is not delivered by FÁS but is being rolled out through the local development companies nationally and by Údarás na Gaeltachta in Gaeltacht areas.