Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 110: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the partial capacity scheme; if it is now possible to apply for this scheme and the qualifying criteria for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33566/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The legislative basis which provides for the introduction of the Partial Capacity Benefit scheme is contained in the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2010. Full details of the scheme will be set out when the scheme is being formally launched before the end of this year

The Partial Capacity Benefit scheme will be open to people who are in receipt of Invalidity Pension (IP) or who have been in receipt of Illness Benefit (IB) for a minimum of six months. Participation in the scheme will be voluntary and the scheme is designed in particular to respond to the needs of people who currently seek to avail of 'exemptions' in order to take up employment opportunities. The limitations on hours worked which apply under the existing 'exemptions' arrangements will not apply to the new scheme.

An extensive programme of work is currently being finalised with a view to enabling the formal introduction of the scheme before the end of the year. Regulations will be introduced shortly which will set out, for instance, the rates of payment which will apply to those who avail of the scheme. Development work is also close to completion on the necessary processes and information technology systems to process, record and pay applicants.

The introduction of the Partial Capacity scheme will mark a key development of the social welfare system. The scheme recognises that the current structure of the welfare system, which categorises people as 'fit to work' or 'unfit to work', does not reflect the reality for many existing welfare customers. It will provide an opportunity for people with disabilities, and assessed to have an employment capacity which is restricted when compared to the norm, to avail of employment opportunities while continuing to receive an income support payment.