Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 378: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a community employment programme (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3903/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Community Employment programme provides a very important and valued contribution to social employment, training and progression for unemployed people. Furthermore, many Community Employment schemes provide vital community services right across the country. There are currently 1,143 CE schemes in operation nationally with 23,300 participants. The overall estimated budget stands at €315,194 million for 2012. CE Participants will continue to receive their dependent children allowances while on CE similar to those in receipt of Social Protection Allowances. CE Participants will also receive a €20 participation bonus in addition to their standard Social Protection allowance while on Community Employment. In addition to the participation bonus, CE also offers CE participants training and work experience opportunities that help them to build self-esteem and re-enter the Labour Market.