Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

240. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the 2018 budget for the youth employment support scheme; the expected number of places in 2018; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40494/18]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Youth Employment Support Scheme (YESS) was announced as part of Budget 2018 and the scheme is open to applications from Monday 1st October 2018.

The YESS is targeted at young jobseekers aged 18-24 years of age who are long-term unemployed or who face barriers to employment. The scheme will aim to provide jobseekers with the opportunity to learn basic work and social skills in a supportive environment while on a work placement. The YESS will provide a supportive structure for Participants, including case officer support for both Placement Hosts and jobseekers.

While participation on the YESS will be wholly voluntary for both parties involved, there will be certain qualifying and eligibility conditions that both placement hosts and jobseekers will have to satisfy.

A budget of €1million has been provided for 2018 which is sufficient for 200 jobseekers to take up a placement by the end of the year.