Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 September 2025
87. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of people who have availed of the Work Placement Experience Programme for the years 2020-2025; the benefits that are offered as part of this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50657/25]
View answerThe Work Placement Experience Programme (WPEP) commenced in 2021. The key objectives of the programme are to:
• keep jobseekers close to the labour market.
• provide jobseekers who have never had a job with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and training to assist them to gain employment.
• provide jobseekers who wish to change careers with the opportunity to gain quality work experience and training in a new employment role.
The number of people who have availed of WPEP from 2021 to 2025 are provided below.
|
Year |
Number of WPEP Participants |
|
2021 |
183 |
|
2022 |
323 |
|
2023 |
408 |
|
2024 |
387 |
|
2025* |
463 |
|
Total |
1764 |
* Includes participants approved to commence in September and October 2025.
Participants complete at least 60 hours of training while on the work placement, of which a minimum of 20 hours should be accredited or sector recognised training.
Participants receive a minimum weekly payment of €359. Any increases due for a Qualified Adult or a Qualified Child are paid in addition to the minimum payment rate. Participants who are entitled to additional benefits such as Fuel Allowance, Living Alone Increase or Telephone Support Allowance, will receive these in addition to the main WPEP payment. Participants retain their medical card during WPEP and their rent payment to their local authority will not increase. WPEP is not subject to means assessment.
While on a placement, Participants can commence part-time employment / self-employment without affecting their entitlements provided that it does not interfere with the required hours of the WPEP placement. Part-time employment with the WPEP Host is not permitted.
I trust this clarifies matter for the Deputy
