Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection, Claire Kerrane TD, has today asked the Tánaiste to provide extensions to participants of Community Employment, Tús and the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance as well as any other schemes where participants have lost out on the usual benefits that come with these schemes due to Covid-19.

Speaking in the Dáil today, Teachta Kerrane said:

“Over the last year, participants on schemes under the Department of Social Protection such as Community Employment, Tús and the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance have really lost out.

“Participants on these schemes typically benefit from a range of training opportunities and work experience which has been lost in the last year due to Covid.

“Participants shouldn’t miss out on these opportunities because of Covid and I have asked that consideration be given to extending time on these schemes for participants impacted.

“In some cases, some schemes have been able to remain operational in our communities, particularly those on Community Employment who provide many essential services that otherwise would not exist. 

“No sector has been immune from the wider effects of the public health crisis, it has impacted every aspect of our lives. In cases where we can assist and support those impacted, such is the case with those on these schemes, this should be done. 

“I have previously asked Minister Humphreys about this and I will continue to push it on behalf of all schemes and participants.”