Calls For End To JobPath Employment Programme

Sinn Fein has demanded an end to the JobPath employment scheme.

The programme is designed to help those who have been out of work for a long period of time back into employment, but the party claims that two private companies behind the initiative are making money, to the detriment of job seekers.

JobPath is delivered on behalf of the Department for Employment Affairs & Social Protection by two private companies, Turas Nua and Seetec.

Sinn Fein have today tabled a motion in the Dáil to end the mandatory nature of the programme and cease referrals to the service.

TD for Wicklow, John Brady, said: "JobPath not only comes at a huge cost to the taxpayer but also at great expense to other community based schemes such as Community Employment, who not only benefit the participant but also provide vital services in towns and villages across the State. 

"There are currently over 1,900 CE vacancies. Other schemes such as the Local Employment Service have seen a drop in referrals across the State. Figures from November last year show that out of the 190,000 people referred at that stage, just 9% (or 17,100) had secured employment which was sustained for at least one year. 

"This alone cost the taxpayer €3,718 per person. Providers also receive double payments where the same individual is referred twice.

"The bottom line is JobPath has failed. It's 'any job will do' attitude means that the service does not put the individual first. It has cost the taxpayer millions and it has been detrimental to existing and reputable community based schemes. It is time to stop lining the pockets of private companies whose only motivation is to make money."



(JG/CM)