THE ESTABLISHMENT of a volunteer corps made up of unemployed people working on community projects without putting their social welfare benefits at risk is one of 44 proposals contained in an action plan published yesterday by an online campaign aimed at finding ways out of the downturn.
Among the other ideas on the Ideas Campaign’s wishlist are a scheme offering discounts to those who pay their taxes in advance, granting people access to paid-up pensions without incurring tax penalties and the adoption of micro-financing operations in low-income areas.
The campaign, set up by former journalist Aileen O’Toole last March, received over 5,000 submissions. A shortlist was then assessed by a group of prominent businesspeople.The campaign has informed Taoiseach Brian Cowen of the proposals and will circulate the list to all political parties.
Describing the number of ideas submitted as “extraordinary”, Mr Cowen said he would fast-track the ideas to the Cabinet Subcommittee on Economic Renewal for assessment and implementation, where appropriate. A full list of the ideas is available at www.ideascampaign.ie
