Niamh Smyth
Question:621. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection to review an application for a person (details supplied); if the scheme will be continued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45260/26]
View answerTuesday, 16 June 2026
Questions (621)
Written answers
The Wage Subsidy Scheme provides a financial incentive to employers to increase the employment of people with disabilities. Under the eligibility criteria applicable to the scheme, for an employer to qualify for a payment, applicants must be either a new or an existing employee who is in their current employment for less than 12 months.
My Department has been engaging with the Irish Prison Service, Probation Service and Tosú to agree a protocol on the provision of employment supports to individuals leaving prison. This protocol will be operational in July and will underpin a standardised employment support offering to all individuals exiting custody, assisting them to secure and sustain employment. The protocol will ensure a seamless referral from the in-prison training and employment supports to Intreo employment services. The protocol will apply to all prisons in the State.
An Employer Relations Officer from my Department will contact the employer concerned to offer appropriate support and to work with them in identifying and recruiting suitable candidates to fill any current and future vacancies.