“We couldn’t survive without CE workers,” was the stark message from Louth councillors who backed calls for greater support and recognition for Community Employment (CE) schemes.
The issue was discussed at the October meeting of Louth County Council, where Cllr Reilly brought forward a motion calling for a review of the pay rates and retirement age of CE workers.
Speaking at the meeting he called on the Government to strengthen CE schemes by increasing the participant top-up payment to a minimum of €50 per week, and allowing participants who wish to do so to remain on schemes until the age of 70.
Cllr Reilly said the contribution made by CE workers is often underestimated despite the vital role they play in communities nationwide.
“The amount of work undertaken by CE scheme participants right across the country is completely underestimated. Participants work 19.5 hours per week and make a huge contribution to towns and villages, Tidy Towns groups, GAA clubs, community centres, tourism projects and local amenities,” he said.
Drawing on his experience at Faughart Shrine in Dundalk, he said many community facilities would not be maintained to the same standard without the dedication and commitment of CE participants.
“There isn’t a community project or GAA club that doesn’t have a CE worker on board,” he said.
“Investing in Community Employment Schemes is an investment in our communities. The people involved deserve greater recognition, greater flexibility and stronger support from Government,” he said.
Describing CE participants as the “backbone” of many local community projects, Cllr Reilly said their work maintaining amenities, supporting community groups, assisting tourism sites and helping sporting organisations provides an invaluable service.
The motion was seconded by Cllr Robert Nash.
While supporting the proposal, Cllr Michelle Hall said it was “too general” and suggested it could be made more specific.
“It is a great scheme, most of the charities wouldn’t be able to run without CE workers,” she said.
Cllr Hall also backed extending the duration of the scheme, saying participants develop valuable skills and become important members of organisations before having to leave.
Cllr Declan Power also welcomed the motion, saying he sees the benefits of CE workers in his role as manager of the Barbican Centre in Drogheda.
“Without them, we couldn’t survive,” he said. “We are a community hub, we are cost-effective as to how we rent out our rooms, but we couldn’t afford to pay their wages.”
He agreed that raising the age limit would be of significant benefit, allowing participants to continue making a positive contribution to community groups and organisations after reaching retirement age.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme