Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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Question 423: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if school boards of management are defined as eligible organisations for participation in the jobsbridge programme; if so the specific process for boards of management applying to participate in the scheme; if they are not eligible the reason for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27343/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The National Internship Scheme was launched on 1st July 2011. It provides internship opportunities of either 6 or 9 months for unemployed individuals at all skills levels. The aim of JobBridge is to assist individuals in breaking the cycle where they are unable to get a job without experience. It provides them with an opportunity to gain valuable experience, relevant knowledge and skills within a working environment. The Scheme is open to organisations in the private, public and community or voluntary sectors.

The Scheme has made significant progress to-date. As at 24th May 2012, 7,316 internship placements have commenced since the launch of the Scheme in July 2011. There are currently 4,825 interns undertaking internship placements. In addition, there are in excess of 1,800 internship posts currently advertised on the JobBridge website www.jobbridge.ie.

A host organisation participating in JobBridge must be in a position to provide a substantial commitment to their intern so as to ensure the provision of a quality internship. To this end, a clear set of rules have been developed to protect the intern and safeguard JobBridge from potential abuse. Potential host organisations can avail of the JobBridge guidelines and full eligibility criteria on the JobBridge website. The process for Host Organisations to apply and advertise positions is also clearly outlined on the website.

In relation to the more specific matter raised by the Deputy, I wish to advise that schools are currently eligible to participate in JobBridge. In this regard, I wish to advise that there are currently in excess of 250 internship placements in the Education sector. There are currently 92 internship placements across primary and secondary schools.