O’Shea Welcomes €1,000 Materials Grant for Community Employment Schemes

Cork North West Fine Gael TD Deputy John Paul O’Shea TD has warmly welcomed the allocation of an additional €1,000 grant for all Community Employment (CE) sponsor organisations, announced as part of Budget 2026.

The once-off grant will support CE sponsors with materials and operational costs, helping schemes to continue delivering essential services while also enhancing training and work experience opportunities for participants.

Deputy O’Shea said “Community Employment schemes are the backbone of so many vital services in towns and villages right across Cork and the country. This additional €1,000 grant will make a real, practical difference on the ground — allowing sponsors to purchase materials, equipment and resources that directly benefit both participants and the wider community.”

Community Employment plays a crucial role in supporting long-term unemployed people to gain meaningful work experience, develop new skills and improve their chances of progressing into employment in the open labour market.

“These schemes are about far more than employment statistics. They support childcare services, tidy towns groups, meals on wheels, community facilities and the upkeep of local amenities. Without CE schemes, many of these essential services simply would not be possible.”

There are currently 807 Community Employment schemes operating nationwide, delivering key services in both disadvantaged urban areas and rural communities. Almost 19,700 participants are currently supported through CE, with over €415 million allocated to the programme in 2026.

Deputy O’Shea concluded “This targeted investment recognises the value of Community Employment — not just as a pathway back to work, but as a cornerstone of community life. I will continue to support measures that strengthen CE schemes and ensure they have the resources they need to thrive.”