Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 192: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the plans in place regarding the implementation of an exit plan for graduate recruits in JobBridge to increase their chances of employment after the internship; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38865/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The aim of JobBridge is to assist individuals bridge the gap between unemployment and the world of work. JobBridge offers individuals a unique opportunity to develop new skills and earn valuable experience, while simultaneously showing a potential employer the valuable contribution they could make to their organisation. Upon completing a JobBridge internship an intern will have enhanced their employability. Anecdotal evidence shows that several individuals have secured employment as a direct result of their JobBridge experience.

There is no specific exit plan for participants of JobBridge as referred to by the Deputy. However, if an employer offers a JobBridge intern employment they may be able to avail of the Employer Job (PRSI) Incentive Scheme. Under this scheme employers will be exempt for 12 months from having to pay their share of PRSI for new employees who have been in receipt of Jobseekers Benefit/Allowance for at least 6 months. This may also include eligible JobBridge interns. A full evaluation of JobBridge will commence in early 2012. The evaluation will assess the impact of the scheme on the unemployed so as to inform future policy development in this area.

Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 193: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the provisions being made to measure the effectiveness of current and future employment schemes; if any measurement exists specifically for graduate unemployment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38866/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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My Department funds and operates a wide range of initiatives to support the unemployed and other recipients of social welfare payments. Schemes and programmes are monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure they remain fit for purpose. Initial work on a review of certain activation measures has commenced. The format of the review has recently been agreed and it will take a number of months to complete. Employment and training programmes delivered by FÁS were the subject of a review undertaken by Forfás which was published in February 2010. In addition, my Department last month issued a request for tender for the evaluation of the JobBridge scheme which will be undertaken in 2012. The closing date for receipt of tenders is 9 December.