asked the Minister for Labour if he will make provision in the forthcoming budget for the introduction of additional special employment and training measures for the long-term unemployed.

I recently announced a number of training and employment scheme measures which will assist the long-term unemployed. The social employment scheme which is directed at the long-term unemployed will operate at an increased level in 1990 with 10,200 man years activity compared with 9,200 man years in 1989. The payment of a child dependant allowance, which I announced last Monday, will make the scheme more attractive to older, long-term unemployed persons with dependants.

The employment incentive scheme has been revamped and redirected towards the long-term unemployed, early school leavers and other disadvantaged groups. I am hopeful that the existence of the subsidy will assist disadvantaged persons in obtaining employment.

Direct responsibility for the contents and the disclosure of provisions in the annual budget lies with the Minister for Finance. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on the contents of the budget.