348 Mr. V. Brady asked the Minister for Labour if he will let Deputy Brady have a reply to his representation concerning an extension under the social employment scheme for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5.

I have replied to Deputy Brady's representations.

I would like to point out that the purpose of the social employment scheme is to give long term unemployed people work related opportunities, albeit on a part-time basis for 52 weeks and so assist them in their efforts to secure employment.

It was never intended that the scheme would provide staffing for projects on a continuing basis.