Noel Rock (Dublin North West, Fine Gael)
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249. To ask the Minister for Social Protection when he expects to launch the work experience programme which will replace JobBridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9395/17]

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. Since then over 19,000 Host Organisations have offered work placement opportunities to over 48,000 participants.

The findings of the recent external evaluation of JobBridge by Indecon Economic Consultants show that the scheme has been very effective in improving the employment outcomes of jobseekers. It indicates that 79% of participants – about 38,000 people – have had some period of employment since completing their placement, with over 64% still in employment. Jobseekers who participated in JobBridge improved their employment outcomes by 32% when compared with non-participants. By any measure this is a significant uplift and shows that placements with a direct link to an employer deliver higher employment outcomes than other options.

Most importantly, the scheme is viewed positively by participants. A majority of over the 10,000 respondents to a survey rated the scheme positively on 18 out of 20 aspects. For example, 70% of participants felt that the placement provided them with a quality work experience and gave them new skills.

The complete Indecon evaluation can be found at:

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While acknowledging that success, it is clear that we can do better. For example, jobseekers feel that the payment could be improved, and employers indicated a willingness to contribute to the cost of the scheme. As a ‘catch-all’ type of programme, there are some deadweight and displacement costs associated with it that could be tackled.

Having considered the evidence and the suggestions put forward by Indecon and the Labour Market Council, I announced my intention to replace JobBridge later this year with a new work experience programme that would be better suited to the much-improved labour market and addresses criticisms of the scheme.

I am very conscious that any new scheme would need the support, trust and confidence of employers, jobseekers and the public. That is why I instructed my officials to consult with key stakeholders on the design principles that should underpin any new work experience programme. These consultations are well underway and I expect my officials to report back to me on the outcome shortly. I will announce my intentions on a new programme after I have a chance to consider the feedback from the key stakeholders.

If you require further assistance with this query please don’t hesitate to contact my office.