THE special measures for 18 and 19 year olds on the live register introduced in this year's Budget take the following form. Those aged 18 or 19 who have been on the live register for six months after first signing on will be told to register with FAS and, where operating, the Local Employment Service.
. FAS will operate a youth progression programme for up to 500 of these young people, with priority given to early school leavers and other disadvantaged groups. The programme will involve intensive counselling for up to eight weeks on the preparation of a job seeking plan, including CV development, interview and presentation skills, the identification of job options and setting up interviews.
. If the participant has still not secured work at the end of this time, further options will be developed, such as skills training job/work trials to be held under the "Work Place" programme, which provides for a five week placement with employers and will commence in May a six month youth employment option with Community Employment sponsors or a subsidised Job Training Scheme.
. Failure to participate will lead to disqualification from assistance for up to nine weeks.