Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an appeal on an extension to a participation on a community scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9714/13]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Community Employment has two options, each with its own set of qualifying conditions: Part-Time Integration Option (PTI) -This is a 12-month work programme with training and development opportunities. This option offers eligible participants part-time work and training for one year; Part-Time Job Option (PTJ) - This option is for persons who are unemployed for over 3 years and who require more long-term support. Participants may have their annual contract renewed for up to 3 years duration for those under 55 years of age, and up to a lifetime maximum of 6 years for those between 55 and 65 inclusive, subject to approval by my Department.

The person concerned is under 55 years of age and is employed under the PTJ option. He will have completed 156 weeks (three years) as a PTJ participant on 15th March 2013. There is no provision to grant additional time under the PTJ option.