ICTU warns it will oppose ‘workfare’ schemes

THE Irish Congress of Trade Unions has warned the Government it will vigorously oppose any attempt to force dole claimants to take part in ‘workfare’ schemes it says are “more about punishing unemployed than helping them”.

Earlier this week, Social Protection Minister Éamon Ó Cuív unveiled a scheme, due to be rolled out next month, under which 10,000 social welfare claimants would have to work in the community to receive benefits.

A total of 40,000 places would be filled within two years.