LESS THAN A THIRD FIND WORK

By David Eade
 

Of those receiving the government’s 426 euros monthly handout to the unemployed over the last 11 months just 30.7 per cent have managed to find work. The total receiving the benefit was 615,771 and 189,000 are now in employment.

Last month the government extended the PRODI scheme saying it would cover 300,000 people and would cost 420 million euros. It is now studying reports on the schemes first phase to see if it should be continued in the future or whether there is a more effective way of helping people find employment.

The PRODI scheme formed part of the basis of the agreement that saw the government’s State of the Nation debate approved in July. The terms of the payments were due to become more restrictive and those aged under 30, over 45, the long term jobless would all benefit. However whilst the 30 to 45 age group with family dependents would still quality those who have no children will no longer receive payment.