Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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482. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her plans to amalgamate Tús and community employment programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38454/18]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy may be aware, there is provision for almost €840m to be spent on working age employment supports provided by my Department in 2018. It is recognised by Government that work schemes such as Tús and Community Employment are positive initiatives that enable the long-term unemployed to make a contribution to their communities whilst up-skilling themselves for prospective future employment. Various community services and activities are directly and indirectly supported by participants through these programmes and initiatives.

Tús was introduced and numbers on other schemes expanded as a direct response to the growth in the level of unemployment during the financial crisis. As the economy continues to recover and the overall level of unemployment continues to fall, the Department recognises the need to adapt these work schemes to the changing circumstances, opportunities and needs of jobseekers and others.

The Department will continue to review these schemes and continue to work with stakeholders in planning the longer term needs of jobseekers and other customers. It remains committed to ensuring that the social inclusion and community benefits that accrue from these schemes continue to be recognised and supported. I do not have any plans to amalgamate the two schemes as suggested by the Deputy.