Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
844. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Social Protection if numbers and details of use of the wage subsidy scheme and the work and access scheme, and the associated supports are monitored by his Department; if such statistics are or will be published on a routine basis; if so, to give details; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11671/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraWork and Access Scheme
The Work and Access Scheme provides set of supports to help people with a disability get a job or stay in work. The supports aim to remove or reduce barriers in the workplace for people with a disability.
To date, a total of 587 applications have been received. Applications are monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure compliance with the terms of the Work and Access scheme.
Wage Subsidy Scheme
The 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 disabled people through a subsidy.
In January 2026, 1,514 employers were availing of the scheme and 2,575 employees were supported through the scheme.
My Department monitors its schemes and supports on an ongoing basis. In the case of the Wage Subsidy Scheme, an annual review is carried out by an Employment Services Officer. Officials may conduct additional monitoring visits without notice to the employer’s premises, when and where required and can request relevant records.
My Department publishes statistics in respect of the Wage Subsidy Scheme every year in the Annual Statistics Report. Work and Access statistics are not published on a routine basis but are available upon request.
