The county’s largest trade union has issued a call for the much hated JobBridge, and similar “free labour schemes” to be scrapped with immediate effect.
The latest call comes after the internal monitors at the Department of Social Protection claimed they are unable to ensure its continued operation will not result in job displacement.
The latest news has led to SIPTU general president, Jack O’Connor, calling for the scheme to be abolished sooner rather than later, Mr O’Connor said: “The results of this report, which were revealed in the media today, concerning the operation of the JobBridge Scheme should end the debate about continuing such ‘free labour schemes’. “They must all be wound up immediately.
“No one should be surprised about the results of this report which confirm mounting anecdotal evidence concerning these schemes and a possible link to job displacement as well as other abuses. “There may have been an argument for such schemes when unemployment was running at double digits but thankfully that is no longer the case.”
“The sad truth is that there is an unscrupulous element among employers that will exploit any opportunity to turn a quick buck. “They will strive to do this irrespective of whatever safeguards or monitoring is put in place concerning these schemes.
“They have no scruples about exploiting workers, conning the taxpayer or competing unfairly with other businesses.
“The only way to combat such abuse is to wind up all these schemes as it can no longer be argued that they are in any way required.
“In the case of the public sector, where the Government has direct control, all those currently employed on such schemes should be offered direct employment given the country’s much improved economic circumstances.”