Penrose raises issue of unfair employment situation within CE Schemes

Labour Spokesperson for Rural and Community Affairs, Willie Penrose TD, has today raised in the Dáil, with the Minister Doherty the ongoing issue of unfair employment situation for Supervisors on Community Employment Schemes. This follows the recent decision of CE Supervisors to withdraw labour and engage in protests in locations around the country on Monday 18th February. 

These schemes are funded by the Department of Social Protection, yet are not subject to the Public Service Superannuation Act 2018, which means they are not being given the same opportunity as other people paid by the Department to work until 70 years old. In July 2008 the Labour Court recommended the establishment of a pension scheme funded by the government. 

Deputy Penrose said in the Dáil;

“Community Employment Supervisors plays a very important role in the supervision and administration of Community Employment Schemes, and they are withdrawing their labour on Monday 18th of February 2019. 

“Siptu and Forsá have issued the notification in this regard and of course the schemes, which are dependent on the invaluable work of these supervisors, are vital for communities across both urban and rural areas, will be impacted by this decision. These include creche activity,  community schemes, Tidy Towns and recreational clubs and facilities. The provision of adequate supervision for the participants in these CE Schemes is crucial 

“I have to ask the Minister what steps, are being taken to resolve the issue of pensions, facing CE Supervisors, which has been long-standing and which the Minister cannot simply ignore.”