John McGuinness

I extend a welcome to Deputy Heneghan's former teachers and class who are in the public Gallery. They have a lot to answer for. They are very welcome and I hope they enjoy the debate.

The time is up, Deputy.

I understand Deputies Michael Collins, O'Flynn and O'Donoghue are sharing time equally.

Are the proposed arrangements for the week's business agreed to?

I call Deputy Carthy.

I call Deputy Collins.

Are the proposed arrangements for this week's business agreed to?

Before we take questions on policy or legislation, on behalf of the Government Whip, the Minister of State, Mary Butler, I welcome the Dolmen active retirement group from Waterford to the Public Gallery. I hope you all enjoy your day in Leinster House. You are very welcome.

Allow the Taoiseach to answer, Deputy.

Deputy Ó Snodaigh, please. I have called Deputy Cummins.

Is the Bill opposed?

Since this is a Private Members' Bill, Second Stage must, under Standing Orders, be taken in Private Members' time.

Deputy-----

Yes.

I call Deputy Danny Healy-Rae.

You.

The Deputy has three minutes.

Can we have some order, please?

Go ahead, Deputy.

Seanad Éireann has passed the Údarás na Gaeltachta Bill 2024, without amendment.

On behalf of Deputy Malcolm Byrne, I ask the Minister to give us an update on the workings of the wage subsidy scheme and any other initiatives that are available to employers and those who have intellectual disabilities and need employment. I believe there is scope to improve the wage subsidy scheme, to include others and to encourage employers to participate more fully.

Does the Minister believe enough is being done to inform employers of the scheme, its benefits and how it assists both employers and those who have an intellectual disability? Does more need to be done to promote the scheme? I come across a lot of people who have intellectual disabilities or acquired disabilities who would like to return to the workforce to do some work and whose health would bene…

I encourage the Department to have an open day where employers can come and meet those who have a disability or those with an acquired disability to see how they can match those who want work with their companies. There are many organisations that are now funded to prepare young people in particular but anybody who is disabled or intellectually disabled to encourage them back into the workforce an…

Deputy O'Hara, are you taking Deputy Daly's questions?

The Deputy's time is up. The Minister to respond.