Employment Schemes
Dail Éireann — 2026-02-19
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Alan Dillon (FG), Mayo

I thank the Deputies for raising these important matters. The most important lesson we have learned as to why there have been low rates of participation is that employers have not been engaged enough. We need to turn the dial as regards the challenges they may face and the barriers that may present themselves. We must ensure they are supported to have better disability and inclusion policies that are focused on employers. The voices of those within the disability sector also need to be heard at that table. We will look at the concerns, the challenges and the stories that have been presented. Many businesses want to employ people but need clarity on flexible arrangements and legal obligations. We have schemes in place that are managed through the Department of Social Protection. However, the Department of enterprise also wants to ensure that enterprises, SMEs and businesses are supported through the Department of Social Protection. That is an important element.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-02-19/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:40+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-02-19