Declan Breathnach (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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301. To ask the Minister for Social Protection his views on recent reports in the media that his Department is considering ending the labour activation schemes, including Tús and gateway; if his attention has been drawn to the detrimental effect this would have on these fundamental schemes which provide an excellent gateway into the workforce for unemployed persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8581/17]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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As Deputy may be aware, my colleague Paschal Donohoe T.D. Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, recently announced a new approach that will be taken to reviewing current Departmental expenditure in advance of Budget 2018. The purpose of this review is to ensure the best value for money for the taxpayer. It is quite distinct from the ‘savings’ reviews in Departmental funding levels that took place during the economic crisis.

It is recognised by Government that activation schemes are positive initiatives that enable people who are long-term unemployed to make a contribution to their communities whilst upskilling themselves for prospective future employment. It is also recognised that long-term unemployment and joblessness remain critical issues. The removal of barriers to employment for those furthest from the labour market continues to be a challenge, even in periods of economic growth.

With the ongoing welcome reductions in the live register and the growth in job opportunities, it is necessary to ensure that the number and nature of activation schemes, as well as the conditions governing participation on these schemes, continues to be appropriate. I will be bringing a Memorandum to Government on the operation of these programmes in the coming weeks. If there are changes to be made, consultations with stakeholders will be facilitated.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.