The Jobbridge scheme has been on the spotlight pretty much since it was activated back in 2011. Seen by most as a handy source of free labour for employers, the programme has gone from one controversy to another throughout its existence.
Now, the Department of Social Protection is said to be seeking an independent, external review of the scheme, which will reportedly issue recommendations by late next year. The review is said to be looking at crucial factors such as employee progression and the extent of job offers and development of interns.
Employers will also be scrutinised, and the probe will try to see if Jobbridge has caused displacement or changed hiring practices, or whether interns experience different treatment to regular employees.