James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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1178. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the types of job schemes that are available to young persons with learning disabilities and mental health issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34409/17]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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My Department does not fund programmes that are specifically targeted at young people with learning disabilities and mental health issues. However, those aged 18 years or over who are currently in receipt of any of the following payments from the Department of Social Protection (DSP) - Disability Allowance, Blind Pension, Invalidity Pension or Illness Benefit (for 6 months or more.), may participate in the Community Employment programme.

Community Employment is an employment programme which helps long-term unemployed people to re-enter the active workforce through a return to work routine. The programme assists them to enhance and develop both their technical and personal skills with a view to securing employment in the open labour market.

In addition, the First Steps programme is available to recipients of Disability Allowance and Blind Pension as part of the EU Youth Guarantee and offers a young person aged 18 to 24, who has had little or no experience of working, the opportunity to learn basic work skills and social skills while on a placement in a real work situation.

Further details of these schemes can be obtained from my Department through its Intreo service.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.