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Perkeso at the forefront of addressing socio-economic crises
Perkeso at the forefront of addressing socio-economic crises

Malaysian Reserve

time5 days ago

  • Business
  • Malaysian Reserve

Perkeso at the forefront of addressing socio-economic crises

During unforeseen crises such as the pandemic, Perkeso steps up as the primary provider of social protection for Malaysian workers THE Covid-19 pandemic, which struck the world in late 2019, had a profound impact not only on public health but also on the global economy, as movement restrictions and border closures disrupted lives and businesses. In Malaysia, the crisis forced many companies to restructure, downsize, or shut down entirely — leaving countless individuals without jobs and affecting their socio-economic stability. Commenting on the issue, Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) Group CEO Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said Covid-19 had a direct and substantial impact on workers' welfare and society as a whole. 'The pandemic underscored the importance of having a strong social protection system to support workers in times of economic uncertainty. At Perkeso, we are committed to being a safety net for workers and their families,' he told Bernama recently. Mohammed Azman said that in facing unexpected crises like a pandemic, Perkeso emerged as the primary provider of social protection for Malaysian workers. 'For example, in 2017, Perkeso pro-actively introduced the Employment Insurance System (EIS) Act 2017 (Act 800) — two years before the pandemic — to provide coverage for workers who lose their jobs due to unforeseen circumstances. 'Act 800 was a crucial step to ensure affected workers, especially in unexpected situations like a pandemic, could return to the workforce more quickly. Programmes such as the Wage Subsidy Scheme demonstrated how social insurance can safeguard jobs and businesses,' he said. This proactive move by Perkeso successfully protected more than 3.1 million workers and nearly 400,000 employers through the Wage Subsidy Scheme, which provided financial support to employers to retain their workers, especially during the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. The informal sector continues to grow rapidly, but its workers remain highly vulnerable to risks, says Mohammed Azman (pic: MEDIA MULIA) Protection for Informal Sector Workers Although Malaysia's economy is recovering post-pandemic, social and economic crises stemming from structural changes in employment continue to linger. The latest data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) shows that the number of workers in the informal sector rose to 3.45 million in 2023. Workers in sectors such as p-hailing, e-hailing and various gig economy platforms face significant challenges, particularly in terms of social security and job stability. Recognising the importance of extending social protection to this group, Mohammed Azman said Perkeso introduced the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) to provide coverage for informal sector workers. 'The informal sector continues to grow rapidly, but its workers remain highly vulnerable to risks. That's why we introduced SKSPS — to ensure they too receive appropriate social protection. 'In addition, the Housewives' Social Security Scheme (SKSSR) was launched to recognise the contribution of women in the care economy, particularly housewives who may not have a steady income but are exposed to significant work-related risks such as accidents and injuries,' he said. Perkeso is committed to being a safety net for workers and their families (pic: MEDIA MULIA) Early Intervention, Employment Recovery Perkeso has also taken proactive steps to address job loss risks through early intervention strategies in collaboration with other agencies, such as the Department of Labour. Mohammed Azman said Perkeso identifies employers intending to lay off workers or downsize operations, and then provides briefings and support programmes for the affected employees. 'Early intervention is crucial because it allows us to support workers before they lose their jobs. This gives them a chance to prepare and seek new employment without overwhelming pressure,' he said. Through Act 800, retrenched workers are supported via case management and retraining programmes, helping them to secure new jobs within six months. Perkeso also provides allowances such as the Job Search Allowance (EMP) and Reduced Income Allowance (EPB) while workers seek new employment. From 2020 to May 2023, more than 36,000 individuals participated in upskilling and retraining programmes under EIS. 'Statistics show that over 16,000 of them successfully secured employment after completing the training,' he said. Incentives, Amendments to Act 800 In line with evolving economic dynamics, Mohammed Azman said Perkeso amended Act 800 to raise the salary ceiling for contribution and benefit calculation to RM6,000 per month, up from RM5,000 previously. 'This move ensures the protection provided remains relevant to the current job market, particularly for workers in the expanding gig and informal sectors. 'With the higher salary cap, we aim to extend commensurate protection to workers in these fast-growing sectors. We're always striving to keep our coverage in line with market developments.' He added that initiatives like MYFutureJobs play a key role in helping informal sector workers transition into more stable, formal employment. 'Through the Informal to Formal Employment Transition Programme, Perkeso assists gig workers and online traders in securing jobs that offer better protection under the social security system,' he said. Empowering Gig Economy, Entrepreneurship Mohammed Azman noted that Perkeso is also actively empowering the gig economy and entrepreneurship through the Gig Economy and Entrepreneurship Career Programme. This programme includes business skills training and partnerships with various digital gig platforms to help workers improve their skills and generate income in the digital economy. 'Perkeso also implements the Bina Kerjaya (Career Building) programme, which offers reskilling training for workers in the informal sector. Since the programme began, over 7,900 individuals have undergone training with allocations totalling RM13.6 million. 'The gig economy is part of Malaysia's employment future. Through programmes like these, we hope to give workers the opportunity to upskill and access better job prospects,' he said. Global rise in the elderly population requires particular focus on retirement fund sustainability and elderly healthcare (pic: AFP) Social Synergy, Cross-Agency Collaboration One of Perkeso's latest initiatives is the Social Synergy Programme, involving over 350 government, NGOs and private agencies. Mohammed Azman said the platform aims to integrate various social assistance schemes into a more coordinated and accessible system for those in need. 'Collaborating with over 350 agencies is a testament to our commitment to delivering aid and support more efficiently to those who need it. The MySynergy system helps accelerate this process,' he said. Under MySynergy, more than 4,000 coordinators nationwide have been trained to manage the programme, which includes assistance in employment, entrepreneurship, poverty eradication and social insurance protection. 'This system also enables faster and more efficient aid distribution through an end-to-end strategy that includes home visits and immediate problem-solving,' he said. Facing the 'Golden Tsunami' Looking ahead, Mohammed Azman said Malaysia's social security ecosystem must continue evolving to stay relevant amid changing demographics and global economic shifts. He noted that the 'Golden Tsunami' phenomenon — referring to the global rise in the elderly population, including in Malaysia — requires particular focus on retirement fund sustainability and elderly healthcare. 'We must be prepared for major demographic shifts. Social protection for senior citizens and sustainable retirement funds will be key focus areas in our future planning. 'With the various initiatives already in place and plans for the future, Perkeso continues to play a key role as the nation's main line of defence in addressing social and economic challenges, while ensuring that no group of workers is left behind due to the rapidly changing dynamics of the world of work,' he said. — Bernama This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition

PERKESO at the forefront of addressing socio-economic crises
PERKESO at the forefront of addressing socio-economic crises

The Sun

time17-07-2025

  • Business
  • The Sun

PERKESO at the forefront of addressing socio-economic crises

KUALA LUMPUR: The COVID-19 pandemic, which struck the world in late 2019, had a profound impact not only on public health but also on the global economy, as movement restrictions and border closures disrupted lives and businesses. In Malaysia, the crisis forced many companies to restructure, downsize, or shut down entirely—leaving countless individuals without jobs and affecting their socioeconomic stability. Commenting on the issue, Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said COVID-19 had a direct and substantial impact on workers' welfare and society as a whole. 'The pandemic underscored the importance of having a strong social protection system to support workers in times of economic uncertainty. At PERKESO, we are committed to being a safety net for workers and their families,' he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama recently. Dr Mohammed Azman said that in facing unexpected crises like a pandemic, PERKESO emerged as the primary provider of social protection for Malaysian workers. 'For example, in 2017, PERKESO proactively introduced the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800), two years before the pandemic, to provide coverage for workers who lose their jobs due to unforeseen circumstances. 'Act 800 was a crucial step to ensure affected workers, especially in unexpected situations like a pandemic, could return to the workforce more quickly. Programmes such as the Wage Subsidy Scheme demonstrated how social insurance can safeguard jobs and businesses,' he said. This proactive move by PERKESO successfully protected more than 3.1 million workers and nearly 400,000 employers through the Wage Subsidy Scheme, which provided financial support to employers to retain their workers, especially during the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. PROTECTION FOR INFORMAL SECTOR WORKERS Although Malaysia's economy is recovering post-pandemic, social and economic crises stemming from structural changes in employment continue to linger. The latest data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) shows that the number of workers in the informal sector rose to 3.45 million in 2023. Workers in sectors such as p-hailing, e-hailing, and various gig economy platforms face significant challenges, particularly in terms of social security and job stability. Recognising the importance of extending social protection to this group, Dr Mohammed Azman said PERKESO introduced the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) to provide coverage for informal sector workers. 'The informal sector continues to grow rapidly, but its workers remain highly vulnerable to risks. That's why we introduced SKSPS—to ensure they too receive appropriate social protection. 'In addition, the Housewives' Social Security Scheme (SKSSR) was launched to recognise the contribution of women in the care economy, particularly housewives who may not have a steady income but are exposed to significant work-related risks such as accidents and injuries,' he said. EARLY INTERVENTION AND EMPLOYMENT RECOVERY PERKESO has also taken proactive steps to address job loss risks through early intervention strategies in collaboration with other agencies, such as the Department of Labour. Dr Mohammed Azman said PERKESO identifies employers intending to lay off workers or downsize operations, and then provides briefings and support programmes for the affected employees. 'Early intervention is crucial because it allows us to support workers before they lose their jobs. This gives them a chance to prepare and seek new employment without overwhelming pressure,' he said. Through Act 800, retrenched workers are supported via case management and retraining programmes, helping them to secure new jobs within six months. PERKESO also provides allowances such as the Job Search Allowance (EMP) and Reduced Income Allowance (EPB) while workers seek new employment. From 2020 to May 2023, more than 36,000 individuals participated in upskilling and retraining programmes under the Employment Insurance System. 'Statistics show that over 16,000 of them successfully secured employment after completing the training,' he said. INCENTIVES AND AMENDMENTS TO ACT 800 In line with evolving economic dynamics, Dr Mohammed Azman said PERKESO amended Act 800 to raise the salary ceiling for contribution and benefit calculation to RM6,000 per month, up from RM5,000 previously. 'This move ensures the protection provided remains relevant to the current job market, particularly for workers in the expanding gig and informal sectors. 'With the higher salary cap, we aim to extend commensurate protection to workers in these fast-growing sectors. We're always striving to keep our coverage in line with market developments,' he said. He added that initiatives like MYFutureJobs play a key role in helping informal sector workers transition into more stable, formal employment. 'Through the Informal to Formal Employment Transition Programme, PERKESO assists gig workers and online traders in securing jobs that offer better protection under the social security system,' he said. EMPOWERING THE GIG ECONOMY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP Dr Mohammed Azman noted that PERKESO is also actively empowering the gig economy and entrepreneurship through the Gig Economy and Entrepreneurship Career Programme. This programme includes business skills training and partnerships with various digital gig platforms to help workers improve their skills and generate income in the digital economy. 'PERKESO also implements the Bina Kerjaya (Career Building) programme, which offers reskilling training for workers in the informal sector. Since the programme began, over 7,900 individuals have undergone training with allocations totalling RM13.6 million. 'The gig economy is part of Malaysia's employment future. Through programmes like these, we hope to give workers the opportunity to upskill and access better job prospects,' he said. SOCIAL SYNERGY AND CROSS-AGENCY COLLABORATION One of PERKESO's latest initiatives is the Social Synergy Programme, involving over 350 government, non-governmental, and private agencies. Dr Mohammed Azman said the platform aims to integrate various social assistance schemes into a more coordinated and accessible system for those in need. 'Collaborating with over 350 agencies is a testament to our commitment to delivering aid and support more efficiently to those who need it. The MySynergy system helps accelerate this process,' he said. Under MySynergy, more than 4,000 coordinators nationwide have been trained to manage the programme, which includes assistance in employment, entrepreneurship, poverty eradication, and social insurance protection. 'This system also enables faster and more efficient aid distribution through an end-to-end strategy that includes home visits and immediate problem-solving,' he said. MOVING FORWARD: FACING THE 'GOLDEN TSUNAMI' Looking ahead, Dr Mohammed Azman said Malaysia's social security ecosystem must continue evolving to stay relevant amid changing demographics and global economic shifts. He noted that the 'Golden Tsunami' phenomenon—referring to the global rise in the elderly population, including in Malaysia—requires particular focus on retirement fund sustainability and elderly healthcare. 'We must be prepared for major demographic shifts. Social protection for senior citizens and sustainable retirement funds will be key focus areas in our future planning. 'With the various initiatives already in place and plans for the future, PERKESO continues to play a key role as the nation's main line of defence in addressing social and economic challenges, while ensuring that no group of workers is left behind due to the rapidly changing dynamics of the world of work,' he said. - Bernama

PERKESO At The Forefront Of Addressing Socio-Economic Crises
PERKESO At The Forefront Of Addressing Socio-Economic Crises

Barnama

time17-07-2025

  • Business
  • Barnama

PERKESO At The Forefront Of Addressing Socio-Economic Crises

T he COVID-19 pandemic, which struck the world in late 2019, had a profound impact not only on public health but also on the global economy, as movement restrictions and border closures disrupted lives and businesses. In Malaysia, the crisis forced many companies to restructure, downsize, or shut down entirely—leaving countless individuals without jobs and affecting their socioeconomic stability. Commenting on the issue, Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said COVID-19 had a direct and substantial impact on workers' welfare and society as a whole. 'The pandemic underscored the importance of having a strong social protection system to support workers in times of economic uncertainty. At PERKESO, we are committed to being a safety net for workers and their families,' he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama recently. Dr Mohammed Azman said that in facing unexpected crises like a pandemic, PERKESO emerged as the primary provider of social protection for Malaysian workers. 'For example, in 2017, PERKESO proactively introduced the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800), two years before the pandemic, to provide coverage for workers who lose their jobs due to unforeseen circumstances. 'Act 800 was a crucial step to ensure affected workers, especially in unexpected situations like a pandemic, could return to the workforce more quickly. Programmes such as the Wage Subsidy Scheme demonstrated how social insurance can safeguard jobs and businesses,' he said. This proactive move by PERKESO successfully protected more than 3.1 million workers and nearly 400,000 employers through the Wage Subsidy Scheme, which provided financial support to employers to retain their workers, especially during the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. PROTECTION FOR INFORMAL SECTOR WORKERS Although Malaysia's economy is recovering post-pandemic, social and economic crises stemming from structural changes in employment continue to linger. The latest data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) shows that the number of workers in the informal sector rose to 3.45 million in 2023. Workers in sectors such as p-hailing, e-hailing, and various gig economy platforms face significant challenges, particularly in terms of social security and job stability. Recognising the importance of extending social protection to this group, Dr Mohammed Azman said PERKESO introduced the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) to provide coverage for informal sector workers. 'The informal sector continues to grow rapidly, but its workers remain highly vulnerable to risks. That's why we introduced SKSPS—to ensure they too receive appropriate social protection. 'In addition, the Housewives' Social Security Scheme (SKSSR) was launched to recognise the contribution of women in the care economy, particularly housewives who may not have a steady income but are exposed to significant work-related risks such as accidents and injuries,' he said. EARLY INTERVENTION AND EMPLOYMENT RECOVERY PERKESO has also taken proactive steps to address job loss risks through early intervention strategies in collaboration with other agencies, such as the Department of Labour. Dr Mohammed Azman said PERKESO identifies employers intending to lay off workers or downsize operations, and then provides briefings and support programmes for the affected employees. 'Early intervention is crucial because it allows us to support workers before they lose their jobs. This gives them a chance to prepare and seek new employment without overwhelming pressure,' he said. Through Act 800, retrenched workers are supported via case management and retraining programmes, helping them to secure new jobs within six months. PERKESO also provides allowances such as the Job Search Allowance (EMP) and Reduced Income Allowance (EPB) while workers seek new employment. From 2020 to May 2023, more than 36,000 individuals participated in upskilling and retraining programmes under the Employment Insurance System. 'Statistics show that over 16,000 of them successfully secured employment after completing the training,' he said. INCENTIVES AND AMENDMENTS TO ACT 800 In line with evolving economic dynamics, Dr Mohammed Azman said PERKESO amended Act 800 to raise the salary ceiling for contribution and benefit calculation to RM6,000 per month, up from RM5,000 previously. 'This move ensures the protection provided remains relevant to the current job market, particularly for workers in the expanding gig and informal sectors. 'With the higher salary cap, we aim to extend commensurate protection to workers in these fast-growing sectors. We're always striving to keep our coverage in line with market developments,' he said. He added that initiatives like MYFutureJobs play a key role in helping informal sector workers transition into more stable, formal employment. 'Through the Informal to Formal Employment Transition Programme, PERKESO assists gig workers and online traders in securing jobs that offer better protection under the social security system,' he said. EMPOWERING THE GIG ECONOMY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP Dr Mohammed Azman noted that PERKESO is also actively empowering the gig economy and entrepreneurship through the Gig Economy and Entrepreneurship Career Programme. This programme includes business skills training and partnerships with various digital gig platforms to help workers improve their skills and generate income in the digital economy. 'PERKESO also implements the Bina Kerjaya (Career Building) programme, which offers reskilling training for workers in the informal sector. Since the programme began, over 7,900 individuals have undergone training with allocations totalling RM13.6 million. 'The gig economy is part of Malaysia's employment future. Through programmes like these, we hope to give workers the opportunity to upskill and access better job prospects,' he said. SOCIAL SYNERGY AND CROSS-AGENCY COLLABORATION One of PERKESO's latest initiatives is the Social Synergy Programme, involving over 350 government, non-governmental, and private agencies. Dr Mohammed Azman said the platform aims to integrate various social assistance schemes into a more coordinated and accessible system for those in need. 'Collaborating with over 350 agencies is a testament to our commitment to delivering aid and support more efficiently to those who need it. The MySynergy system helps accelerate this process,' he said. Under MySynergy, more than 4,000 coordinators nationwide have been trained to manage the programme, which includes assistance in employment, entrepreneurship, poverty eradication, and social insurance protection. 'This system also enables faster and more efficient aid distribution through an end-to-end strategy that includes home visits and immediate problem-solving,' he said. MOVING FORWARD: FACING THE 'GOLDEN TSUNAMI' Looking ahead, Dr Mohammed Azman said Malaysia's social security ecosystem must continue evolving to stay relevant amid changing demographics and global economic shifts. He noted that the 'Golden Tsunami' phenomenon—referring to the global rise in the elderly population, including in Malaysia—requires particular focus on retirement fund sustainability and elderly healthcare. 'We must be prepared for major demographic shifts. Social protection for senior citizens and sustainable retirement funds will be key focus areas in our future planning. 'With the various initiatives already in place and plans for the future, PERKESO continues to play a key role as the nation's main line of defence in addressing social and economic challenges, while ensuring that no group of workers is left behind due to the rapidly changing dynamics of the world of work,' he said.

Six new social welfare changes to little-known €245 weekly payment – are you eligible?
Six new social welfare changes to little-known €245 weekly payment – are you eligible?

The Irish Sun

time12-06-2025

  • Business
  • The Irish Sun

Six new social welfare changes to little-known €245 weekly payment – are you eligible?

SIX changes to a little-known social welfare payment worth €245 each week have been confirmed. The upcoming Advertisement 3 The scheme is designed to support more disabled people into employment Credit: Getty 3 Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary, Minister of State in attendance Hildegarde Naughton, Taoiseach Micheal Martin and Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley Credit: Niall Carson/PA Wire The Wage Subsidy Scheme gives financial support to employers who employ people with disabilities. The scheme is designed to support more disabled people into employment. The changes announced are a result of the recommendations from a review of the WSS, which was carried out by the Department of Social Protection in August 2024. Advertisement Read more in Money The employer will pay the employee the going rate for the job. And the basic rate of subsidy is €6.30 per hour with the maximum annual subsidy to the employer of €12,776, based on a 39-hour week. And this equals around €245.69 each week. The employee must work at least 15 hours a week. Advertisement MOST READ IN MONEY Speaking at the event last week, the Taoiseach said: "I am delighted to launch these improvements to the Wage Subsidy Scheme. Little known social welfare benefits thousands are entitled to "Supports like this play not only a critical role in closing the employment gap for people with disabilities, reducing poverty and supporting families and communities, but also for employers in bringing new ideas, skills and knowledge to their businesses. "I am committed to advancing the rights and improving the lives of people with disabilities including through removing barriers to employment. "Supports such as this revised Wage Subsidy Scheme recognise that the perspective, talents, and contributions of people with disabilities across society add immeasurably to the quality, the richness and the diversity of all our lives." Advertisement SIX NEW CHANGES TO WSS THE reformed scheme now implements the six recommendations made in the review: Reduce the minimum required hours for the scheme. The minimum hours requirement to avail of the subsidy has been reduced from 21 hours to 15 hours to enable those with more limited work capacity to be included. Remove the term 'productivity deficit' from the scheme. The scheme no longer focuses on a productivity deficit but on the need to adapt the role to a disabled person's ability. Expand the scheme beyond recruitment to include retention of people returning to work. This is particularly important as most disabilities are acquired. People who return to work on Partial Capacity Benefit and who have acquired their disability or health condition in the previous 12 months are now eligible. Expand the scheme to the community and voluntary sector and commercial state-sponsored sector. This will increase employment opportunities for disabled people by expanding the scheme beyond private sector employers to all non-public sector employers. Review the subsidy rate on a regular basis. This will ensure that the subsidy continues to sufficiently support employers. The subsidy rate will be reviewed at least every three years. Promote and improve knowledge of the scheme. The Minister has today launched a nationwide publicity campaign for the Wage Subsidy Scheme to promote and improve knowledge of the scheme. Minister Calleary added: "I strongly encourage employers to consider how the Wage Subsidy Scheme can improve their business and offer substantial and sustainable employment to disabled people." "I believe that the changes made to the Wage Subsidy Scheme will make it more accessible and flexible for both employers and disabled people. "People with disabilities have the talents and skills that employers need. "Improving employment prospects for disabled people is an absolute priority for me, the Taoiseach and this government." Advertisement There are around 1,500 employers who are already taking part in the Wage Subsidy Scheme across the country. WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR WSS? You must be at least 18 years of age to participate in the WSS and you cannot take part if you are eligible to apply for the State Pension. The scheme is not available to self-employed people, people on the Community Employment scheme, Tús, or the Rural Social Scheme, or those who are on the Work Placement Experience Programme. You can qualify for the WSS without a medical assessment if you are getting one of the following disability payments: Advertisement Disability Allowance Blind Pension Disablement Pension - at 20 per cent or more for life Illness Benefit Invalidity Pension If you are not getting a disability payment, you can still apply for the WSS. To apply, you need a recent specialist's report or doctor's letter confirming your disability. Your doctor must also fill out a confidential medical report form confirming that you have a disability which will reduce your ability to work. Minister for Advertisement "There is so much potential and talent that can be tapped into. "I hope these improvements to the scheme will encourage more employers to become involved and provide real opportunities for people with disabilities to showcase their talents and abilities.' 3 Taoiseach Micheal Martin and the Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary last week announced the expansion of the scheme Credit:

Taoiseach launches expansion of Wage Subsidy Scheme
Taoiseach launches expansion of Wage Subsidy Scheme

BreakingNews.ie

time04-06-2025

  • Business
  • BreakingNews.ie

Taoiseach launches expansion of Wage Subsidy Scheme

The Government has announced a reformed scheme to support more disabled people into employment. The Wage Subsidy Scheme gives employers financial support to encourage them to hire people with disabilities. Advertisement Employers can get a subsidy of between €6.30-€9.45 per hour, depending on the number of workers employed under the scheme. The support can help cover the cost of adapting a role for the employee. Under measures announced by Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Social Protection Minister Dara Calleary, the scheme is to be extended to the community and voluntary sector as well as the commercial state-sponsored sector. In addition, there will be a reduction in the minimum required hours to avail of the subsidy – down from 21 to 15 hours. Advertisement The scheme has also been expanded beyond recruitment to include retention of people returning to work on Partial Capacity Benefit. The subsidy rate is to be reviewed at least every three years. Disability Minister Norma Foley and junior minister Hildegarde Naughton also addressed a launch event at Chartered Accountants House in Dublin on Wednesday. Mr Martin said: 'Supports like this play not only a critical role in closing the employment gap for people with disabilities, reducing poverty and supporting families and communities, but also for employers in bringing new ideas, skills and knowledge to their businesses. Advertisement 'I am committed to advancing the rights and improving the lives of people with disabilities including through removing barriers to employment. 'Supports such as this revised Wage Subsidy Scheme recognise that the perspective, talents, and contributions of people with disabilities across society add immeasurably to the quality, the richness and the diversity of all our lives.'

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