Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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241. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the assistance available for young persons to train and gain employment in public projects in their local area (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28085/18]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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My Department does not have a role in relation to the public project referred to, as this is a matter for Dublin City Council.

However, this Government supports young, unemployed people with a number of policies directed to help them to secure sustainable jobs.  

The first intervention under the Government policy is to provide a case officer to support the newly unemployed young person.

The case officer will work with the young person to develop a Personal Progression Plan which identifies the steps to be taken to facilitate a swift return to employment, which may include further education and training or other opportunities.  This training is provided by the relevant State agencies.

My Department has been provided with funding under the Dormant Accounts Fund for the development of a Youth Employability Initiative.  My Department will be announcing details of a needs led Youth Employability Initiative later this year, which will focus on providing soft skills to young people to improve their employability.

Also, the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection will shortly introduce a new work experience programme targeted specifically at young jobseekers who are long term unemployed or who face significant barriers to gaining employment.  The new Youth Employment Support Scheme (YESS) will provide young people with the opportunity to learn basic work and social skills in a supportive environment while on a work placement.