Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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JobBridge was introduced in July 2011 in response to the unprecedented collapse of our economy and particularly the sharp and dramatic increase in unemployment. A robust external evaluation of the scheme recommended that it should be replaced with a new work experience programme that is better suited to the much-improved labour market and addresses some criticisms of the current scheme.

JobBridge was closed to new applications from 27 October 2016 to allow for a period of consultation with key stakeholders on design principles for a proposed new work experience programme and to facilitate an orderly wind down of the current scheme. The consultation process is well underway and I expect my officials to report back to me shortly on the outcome.

In the meantime, employers who wish to offer work experience opportunities are welcome participate in the First Steps programme. This is a variant of JobBridge targeted at young jobseekers who face barriers to employment. Organisations who would like to express an interest in this scheme can contact my Department at firststeps@welfare.ie. Further information available at .

Alternatively, employers can avail of JobsPlus which offers cash incentives of up to €10,000 to recruit jobseekers from the Live Register. Further information on the full range of employer supports, including free recruitment services, is available at the nationwide network of Intreo Centres.