Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 July 2025
170. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons that have benefitted since the minimum required hours under the wage subsidy scheme was reduced from 21 hours to 15 hours in April 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39922/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Wage Subsidy Scheme is a key disability employment support provided by my Department. It aims to encourage employers to offer substantial and sustainable employment to people with disabilities through a subsidy.
Last year, my Department published a review of the Wage Subsidy Scheme, following a public consultation. The review made six recommendations to make the scheme more flexible and effective, including a recommendation to reduce the minimum required hours of the scheme from 21 to 15 hours per week. The recommendations were accepted and the reduced hours requirement has been in place since April 2024.
Of the 2,506 employees who were employed under the Wage Subsidy Scheme at the end of June, 257 were working between 15 and 20 hours.
