Department to consider extending period for CE participants in Childcare sector – Humphreys
Fine Gael TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Heather Humphreys, has called on the Minister for Social Protection to ensure that participants on Community Employment schemes in the childcare sector are retained for at least a two year period so that participants can complete their FETAC award.
Deputy Humphreys said:
“I have received a number of representations from childcare organisations across Cavan and Monaghan in relation to this matter. It is essential that participants on CE schemes in the area of childcare are maintained for at least a two year period so as to allow participants to complete their FETAC Level 5 Major Award.
“I have strongly lobbied Minister Joan Burton in relation to this matter and I was pleased to receive confirmation from the Minister this week advising that officials in her Department’s Community Employment Policy Unit are currently giving serious consideration to extending the duration of participation for CE Participants who are working directly with children and who are also working towards the achievement of a Level 5 Major Award in Childcare.
“The Minister has advised me that it is anticipated that a new initiative will be rolled out shortly and Department officials will be in touch with all the relevant Community Childcare facilities on the matter.
“I believe this is a very positive development and it will help to ensure that those participating on CE schemes will be better equipped to progress into full time employment,” said Deputy Humphreys.
