Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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23. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she is aware of the impact of dramatic increases in insurance premiums on community employment schemes; if she will address this through additional supports for these schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5048/16]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Department has become aware in recent times of increases in insurance premiums for Community Employment (CE) schemes. In the first instance, the Department recommends that schemes seek alternative quotes to ensure they get value for money. In this context, schemes are asked to be especially mindful of their obligations under theSafety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.

Insurance premium costs are reimbursed from the CE materials budget. While the Department is not in a position to allocate additional monies to the materials budget in 2016, if there is a scheme experiencing particular difficulties, the sponsor should contact their local DSP office and the matter will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.