562. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection if he is aware that due to a recent change in Department policy, activation officers are now required to meet with jobseeker’s when they have only been on a social welfare payment for 300 days; if he is aware that they are then referred to Intreo partners, i.e., local employment area service, and so on; if he is aware that individuals cannot be referred on to a community employment programme until they have been on a social welfare payment for 365 days and as a result jobseekers are meeting with at least two different agencies in the time before they become eligible for the programme; if he understands that this means those who are suitable for community employment are not getting the best chance to be referred on to the programme; if he is aware that this has resulted in local community groups in Meath and Louth noticing many issues with those who are being referred to them regarding their suitability for the programme (details supplied); if his Department will consider changing its eligibility policy on accepting trainees at the 300-day stage instead of waiting until 365 days have passed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33622/25]

Summary

562. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection if he is aware that due to a recent change in Department policy, activation officers are now required to meet with jobseeker’s when they have only been on a social welfare payment for 300 days; if he is aware that they are then referred to Intreo partners, i.e., local employment area service, and so on; if he is aware that individuals cannot be referred on to a community employment programme until they have been on a social welfare payment for 365 days and as a result jobseekers are meeting with at least two different agencies in the time before they become eligible for the programme; if he understands that this means those who are suitable for community employment are not getting the best chance to be referred on to the programme; if he is aware that this has resulted in local community groups in Meath and Louth noticing many issues with those who are being referred to them regarding their suitability for the programme (details supplied); if his Department will consider changing its eligibility policy on accepting trainees at the 300-day stage instead of waiting until 365 days have passed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33622/25]

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