YFG Calls for UK-Style Kickstarter Jobs Scheme For Young People in Ireland

Young Fine Gael is calling for the introduction of a Kickstarter Jobs Scheme for young people in Ireland – similar to what was announced in the United Kingdom at the start of July.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, announced a £2billion scheme with the sole aim of creating hundreds of thousands of high quality six-month work placements for young people aged between 16 and 24, who are also claiming Jobseeker’s Benefit. This scheme covers the cost of 25 hours a week at the National Minimum Wage.

Young people make up a large share of those who are unemployed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. We are calling on the Government to put the protection of young people’s wellbeing as a matter of priority during this incredibly difficult time.

We believe that the Government should strongly consider introducing a similar fund here in Ireland so that young people are not left behind as part of this recovery.

The proposal is included in Young Fine Gael’s Pre-Budget Submission: Striving for Progress, which was unveiled at the end of August.

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