Cllr Carrigy lists Community Employment schemes as a priority

Fine Gael Cllr Micheál Carrigy says the preservation of community employment (CE) schemes in Longford is a priority.

He noted that CE schemes not only benefit communities throughout the county, but also local services which are vital to communities and parishes throughout Ireland.

Cllr Carrigy stated, “Many other valuable local services throughout the country similarly depend on the CE Scheme to thrive – and in many cases survive. Crucially, the participants in these schemes also significantly benefit- with placements providing the dignity, pride and self-esteem which comes from doing a good day’s work,”

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Cllr Carrigy says social inclusion placements under the scheme grants opportunities to those who may not find work otherwise, to contribute to their locality.

“I want to ensure that we maintain and support this valuable service and the much needed opportunities it provides.”

He warned that the number of places on the scheme will reduce unless the current set up is reviewed.

“Ultimately, we need to ring-fence the Social Inclusion places to ensure that services within local communities can be maintained.” Cllr Carrigy concluded.