Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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189. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if he is aware of the significant insurance increases for many community employment schemes; his plans to deal with correspondence (details supplied).; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17555/16]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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The Department has become aware in recent times of an increase in insurance premiums for community employment (CE) schemes. The main reasons cited for this is an increase in claims frequency over recent years by such 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 the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.

Insurance premium costs are reimbursed from the CE materials budget for the scheme. 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.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.