TUS Programme

danjo-xx · 23-02-2013 9:12pm

dubscribe wrote: »

Perhaps you misunderstood. On the Tus Scheme ALL of your income ie your dole money plus the 20 euro top up is liable for tax and PRSI. You don't earn enough to pay tax but you do earn enough to be liable to the 4% PRSI contribution, you are excluded from the USC tax.

I can't find the legal response but this is the gist of it.

Our expert, John Kelly says:

Hi Gerard

Employees with reckonable weekly pay of €352 or less are exempt from paying PRSI for that week and that will remain the case. The weekly PRSI exemption will cease for employees with weekly earnings in excess of €352.

http://www.irishtimes.com/blogs/asktheexperts/2012/12/05/does-the-removal-of-prsi-exemption-only-hit-people-already-paying-prsi-or-does-it-bring-in-those-people-who-earn-between-38-352e-per-week-and-currently-pay-nothing/

Backstreet Moyes · 26-02-2013 1:57pm

So an update all i can say is the scheme is misleading imo and unfair on people who are actually trying to work.

As if people read my last few posts would have seen i pulled out of a TUS job because i didn't feel it was benefitting me and answering phones didn't suit me and my nerves were not the best.

So i was called in for a meeting. The boss at the place i left admitted that their wasn't enough work their and i was doing very little except answering phones. She agreed i wasn't benefitting as much as i should be and understanded why i left. You are told when you go down to them that you do not have to take a job once it doesn't feel it will help improve your skills. Also you can pull out of a job if you are not getting any experience that is helpful to you and they will find another job for you.

So i was told yesterday that they will keep up my payments for two or three more weeks. They are using all their contacts to get me another placement. If i can't find a job within that time i will have to go back on the dole. I was told basically i am going to be cut off from my payments or get a cut in the dole.

So basically this means even if i get offered a job on the scheme even if it doesn't suit me i have to take it. It also means that even though your told you can pull out of a job if you are not getting the experience you are meant to it is a lie. Even though since i quit last week i have had a job interview that i applied for myself it doesn't make much difference. I have countless job applications i could show to the dole office. I have also been looking at going back to college to do a masters degree. But i was told this doesn't really matter i will basically get cut if im not working in the next two or three weeks. My heads all over the place with worry. I don't know what to do this really is a bad way to treat people who want to work.

dubscribe · 26-02-2013 3:26pm

Nuts102 wrote: »

So an update all i can say is the scheme is misleading imo and unfair on people who are actually trying to work.....

So i was told yesterday that they will keep up my payments for two or three more weeks. They are using all their contacts to get me another placement. If i can't find a job within that time i will have to go back on the dole. I was told basically i am going to be cut off from my payments or get a cut in the dole....

Nuts102, this is dreadful news to read, poor you. What an appalling way you have been treated. I know, essentially you sound like a timid and shy person but I'm sorry to say that this is one occasion where you will have to stand up for yourself and your rights.

Certainly the one thing I have learned from your experience is that if they say I don't have to accept an unsuitable job, I want it in writing. It would appear their word is unreliable. They tell you one thing and then do something else.

At this stage I would suggest you ask to meet with the overall supervisor of the Tus scheme in your area and ask him/her for an explanation as to why they want to reduce your dole money because they did not deliver on their word, ie a suitable placement. This is not your fault and you should not be penalised for it. These schemes always have a "right of appeal" policy/system, I suggest you engage with it now rather than wait until your dole is cut and then have to fight for it to be reinstated.

I also suggest you contact www.inou.ie - the National Organisation of the Unemployed. Tell them what's happening with you. They will definitely have good suggestions to offer you.

Hang in there. You have support with us.

TAKEN from INOU website:
Refusing an offer of Training
If you refuse an offer of training without just cause or good reason the Department of Social Protection may apply a penalty rate to your Jobseeker's Benefit/Jobseeker's Allowance payment. If this happens you may ask for a review of this decision. Please contact the INOU on (01) 856 0088 for information.

Backstreet Moyes · 26-02-2013 4:50pm

dubscribe wrote: »

Nuts102, this is dreadful news to read, poor you. What an appalling way you have been treated. I know, essentially you sound like a timid and shy person but I'm sorry to say that this is one occasion where you will have to stand up for yourself and your rights.

Certainly the one thing I have learned from your experience is that if they say I don't have to accept an unsuitable job, I want it in writing. It would appear their word is unreliable. They tell you one thing and then do something else.

At this stage I would suggest you ask to meet with the overall supervisor of the Tus scheme in your area and ask him/her for an explanation as to why they want to reduce your dole money because they did not deliver on their word, ie a suitable placement. This is not your fault and you should not be penalised for it. These schemes always have a "right of appeal" policy/system, I suggest you engage with it now rather than wait until your dole is cut and then have to fight for it to be reinstated.

I also suggest you contact www.inou.ie - the National Organisation of the Unemployed. Tell them what's happening with you. They will definitely have good suggestions to offer you.

Hang in there. You have support with us.

TAKEN from INOU website:
Refusing an offer of Training
If you refuse an offer of training without just cause or good reason the Department of Social Protection may apply a penalty rate to your Jobseeker's Benefit/Jobseeker's Allowance payment. If this happens you may ask for a review of this decision. Please contact the INOU on (01) 856 0088 for information.

Thanks for that. I am just not sure what way to approach it. The person who is dealing with me from TUS seems genuine. TUS are going to continue paying me for the next few weeks. If they can't get me a placement then i will have to go back on the dole. He said he should be able to get me an interview or two and he is using all his contacts.

He said the dole would then call me in for a meeting if i didn't get a job. He didn't say i would be cut but basically said it would be bad for me if i had to go back onto the dole. He said he would fight my case for me but their was not much he could do. He didn't say i would be cut off directly but gave a big hint that i would be getting cut money.

Their is a place that advises citizens on their rights and about money etc i think i will call into them and get their advice. My friend told me that it was dodgy when they told me you only have to take the job if it will benefit you and you don't have to take the job. He also said to be wary of them saying you can leave the job if it's unsuitable. Just don't know what way to approach it really as i don't know anybody else who was in the same situation.

What i found odd was it didn't seem that they thought it mattered that i have proof of looking for jobs. Surely if i get called in by the dole i can prove i had an interview. Also provide them with rejection emails for jobs. I presumed proving your looking for work was the main requirement for recieving your dole.

mrbrown69 · 26-02-2013 5:31pm

Nuts102 wrote: »

Thanks for that. I am just not sure what way to approach it. The person who is dealing with me from TUS seems genuine. TUS are going to continue paying me for the next few weeks. If they can't get me a placement then i will have to go back on the dole. He said he should be able to get me an interview or two and he is using all his contacts.

He said the dole would then call me in for a meeting if i didn't get a job. He didn't say i would be cut but basically said it would be bad for me if i had to go back onto the dole. He said he would fight my case for me but their was not much he could do. He didn't say i would be cut off directly but gave a big hint that i would be getting cut money.

Their is a place that advises citizens on their rights and about money etc i think i will call into them and get their advice. My friend told me that it was dodgy when they told me you only have to take the job if it will benefit you and you don't have to take the job. He also said to be wary of them saying you can leave the job if it's unsuitable. Just don't know what way to approach it really as i don't know anybody else who was in the same situation.

What i found odd was it didn't seem that they thought it mattered that i have proof of looking for jobs. Surely if i get called in by the dole i can prove i had an interview. Also provide them with rejection emails for jobs. I presumed proving your looking for work was the main requirement for recieving your dole.

By right they have no rights in that case to cut you off or cut your payment...but you've been sucked into this scheme and they can use it an excuse....ideally anyone not interested in getting involved in this because they feel it's of no benefit should not appear so keen in the interview.....I'm not saying act a total arse, little things like turning up late and not being as responsive in your answers as you would be for a "real" interview...they have a list, you might get passed over but hay at least you turned up

rsole1 · 26-02-2013 5:33pm

Nuts102 wrote: »

Thanks for that. I am just not sure what way to approach it. The person who is dealing with me from TUS seems genuine. TUS are going to continue paying me for the next few weeks. If they can't get me a placement then i will have to go back on the dole. He said he should be able to get me an interview or two and he is using all his contacts.

He said the dole would then call me in for a meeting if i didn't get a job. He didn't say i would be cut but basically said it would be bad for me if i had to go back onto the dole. He said he would fight my case for me but their was not much he could do. He didn't say i would be cut off directly but gave a big hint that i would be getting cut money.

Their is a place that advises citizens on their rights and about money etc i think i will call into them and get their advice. My friend told me that it was dodgy when they told me you only have to take the job if it will benefit you and you don't have to take the job. He also said to be wary of them saying you can leave the job if it's unsuitable. Just don't know what way to approach it really as i don't know anybody else who was in the same situation.

What i found odd was it didn't seem that they thought it mattered that i have proof of looking for jobs. Surely if i get called in by the dole i can prove i had an interview. Also provide them with rejection emails for jobs. I presumed proving your looking for work was the main requirement for recieving your dole.

Can you not go back to your original job and just "play the game" ? Just sit there and play them at their own game. I'd have a bit of fun at their expense, they'd be glad to get rid of me.

I went on a TUS interview last September and didn't hear another word. How long between interview and them finding you a place?

Alex Salmon · 26-02-2013 5:38pm

I am surprised that no one has taken this to the social welfare appeals office or the courts yet. Have they actually stopped anyones money yet for not obeying TUS?

I am sure that any decision to stop dole could be judicially reviewed and it could bring the whole TUS regime into doubt.

Backstreet Moyes · 26-02-2013 5:40pm

rsole1 wrote: »

Can you not go back to your original job and just "play the game" ? Just sit there and play them at their own game. I'd have a bit of fun at their expense, they'd be glad to get rid of me.

I went on a TUS interview last September and didn't hear another word. How long between interview and them finding you a place?

It was a few weeks before they got me a job. Being honest i would rather not go back their and i told them that.

dubscribe · 26-02-2013 7:08pm

Contact the INOU, they will definitely be able to advise you.

StillWaters · 26-02-2013 9:20pm

Alex Salmon wrote: »

I am surprised that no one has taken this to the social welfare appeals office or the courts yet. Have they actually stopped anyones money yet for not obeying TUS?

I am sure that any decision to stop dole could be judicially reviewed and it could bring the whole TUS regime into doubt.

It is before the Courts at the moment, not tus in particular, but penalisation for non activation.

mrbrown69 · 26-02-2013 10:30pm

Joan Burton...spokeswoman for the people

gets in position then penalizes the people... unemployed treated like criminals under her watch

Karen23 · 26-02-2013 11:07pm

I finished Tus in January and I was offered part time work from the placement. I was delighted but before I started the position I had been called to the local Social Welfare Office to discuss what happens after Tus. I told them I had been offered part time work which I had yet to begin but had a letter from my employer confirming this and I would be claiming for the days I wouldn't be working. My case officer told me this was not good enough and gave me a number of positions to apply for , none of which I was qualified for and all were part time. What the hell do I have to do ?? I've never missed an appointment or interview , never refused to take part in any scheme or training , managed to secure part time work but its still not good enough. I have to apply for the jobs she gave me or she said they're would be penaltys to my payment.

Backstreet Moyes · 26-02-2013 11:31pm

Karen23 wrote: »

I finished Tus in January and I was offered part time work from the placement. I was delighted but before I started the position I had been called to the local Social Welfare Office to discuss what happens after Tus. I told them I had been offered part time work which I had yet to begin but had a letter from my employer confirming this and I would be claiming for the days I wouldn't be working. My case officer told me this was not good enough and gave me a number of positions to apply for , none of which I was qualified for and all were part time. What the hell do I have to do ?? I've never missed an appointment or interview , never refused to take part in any scheme or training , managed to secure part time work but its still not good enough. I have to apply for the jobs she gave me or she said they're would be penaltys to my payment.

How horrible for you. It seems the more you co-operate the more they want to screw you over. Have yet to hear a person with anything good to say about the scheme.

youtube! · 26-02-2013 11:33pm

Karen23 wrote: »

I finished Tus in January and I was offered part time work from the placement. I was delighted but before I started the position I had been called to the local Social Welfare Office to discuss what happens after Tus. I told them I had been offered part time work which I had yet to begin but had a letter from my employer confirming this and I would be claiming for the days I wouldn't be working. My case officer told me this was not good enough and gave me a number of positions to apply for , none of which I was qualified for were and all part time. What the hell do I have to do ?? I've never missed an appointment or interview , never refused to take part in any scheme or training , managed to secure part time work but its still not good enough. I have to apply for the jobs she gave me or she said they're would be penaltys to my payment.

So you have been offered a PT position with the company you have trained with and she wants you to apply for other PT positions with companies you haven't trained with

that's a bloody joke Karen. If you were told to apply for FT positions then fair enough but what exactly is the difference between one PT job and another in you case officer's mind? She sounds like a right dosy cow, or maybe just an arch-bitch. Go back and ask her these questions and if you don't get any satisfaction go over her head.

youtube! · 26-02-2013 11:44pm

Nuts102 wrote: »

How horrible for you. It seems the more you co-operate the more they want to screw you over. Have yet to hear a person with anything good to say about the scheme.

I think a lot of people (including Karen) have enjoyed their time on the programme but what is wrong is not so much the scheme itself but rather the whole merry go round of meetings and pressures from people who seem to be under orders to make it as awkward as possible to let you find your way in the world of employment or otherwise. My opinion is once you ride this merry go round they really don't want to let you off it,in other words once they have you removed from the live register they don't want you back on it.

JackieBurke · 27-02-2013 12:21am

Once you are removed from the live register there is no way they will allow you back on it.

I had a similar problem with a deciding officer a few years ago. I had applied for BTEA and was approved for it on a 2 year third level course. All great. A week before registration at college I am called in for an interview. The person was told that I was going on BTEA and that the course was starting in a week. That was not good enough and I was threatened with having my whole course cancelled if I did not apply for silly jobs.

I had to instruct a solicitor to deal with the department. I got to do my course and enjoyed it and got a good job in the end.

Keep the faith Karen.

Karen23 · 27-02-2013 1:10am

youtube! wrote: »

So you have been offered a PT position with the company you have trained with and she wants you to apply for other PT positions with companies you haven't trained with that's a bloody joke Karen. If you were told to apply for FT positions then fair enough but what exactly is the difference between one PT job and another in you case officer's mind? She sounds like a right dosy cow, or maybe just an arch-bitch. Go back and ask her these questions and if you don't get any satisfaction go over her head.

She said if the part time positions she suggested offered more hours than the part time job I had been offered then I would be obligated to leave and take the job with more hours.

youtube! · 27-02-2013 4:40am

Karen23 wrote: »

She said if the part time positions she suggested offered more hours than the part time job I had been offered then I would be obligated to leave and take the job with more hours.

Oh well Karen I know you won't like doing this but your only solution is to attend the interviews and act like a retarded mong. Just show up in creased clothing with messy hair and slouch your shoulders and deliberately **** up the interview. That way you won't be offered the position. When your dealing with mongs you have to act like one yourself.

rsole1 · 27-02-2013 10:01am

youtube! wrote: »

Oh well Karen I know you won't like doing this but your only solution is to attend the interviews and act like a retarded mong. Just show up in creased clothing with messy hair and slouch your shoulders and deliberately **** up the interview. That way you won't be offered the position. When your dealing with mongs you have to act like one yourself.

Yes you're spot on. Was called in by TUS last September. Was asked if I would like to work with "youth", told them don't like cheeky little bastards. Asked if I could do some handyman work, yes said I but not much good, but can always manage a bodge up when needed. At the end of interview they said they would be in touch, but they might not be. Nothing for six months, hope this continues.

Sephiroth_dude · 27-02-2013 10:02am

Karen23 wrote: »

I finished Tus in January and I was offered part time work from the placement. I was delighted but before I started the position I had been called to the local Social Welfare Office to discuss what happens after Tus. I told them I had been offered part time work which I had yet to begin but had a letter from my employer confirming this and I would be claiming for the days I wouldn't be working. My case officer told me this was not good enough and gave me a number of positions to apply for , none of which I was qualified for and all were part time. What the hell do I have to do ?? I've never missed an appointment or interview , never refused to take part in any scheme or training , managed to secure part time work but its still not good enough. I have to apply for the jobs she gave me or she said they're would be penaltys to my payment.

Not good enough? You should have slapped them for that,cheeky gits!

Backstreet Moyes · 27-02-2013 3:54pm

I have done a bit of research this morning and it looks like if you turn down a position you will be cut on the dole. Despite the TUS people saying you are under no obligation to take offered jobs. So basically it's lies when they tell you don't have to take a job.

So basically i left a job where the boss herself said it was a mismatch and i will most likely be cut. I was told if you are not getting the training you were told you would you could leave the placement and they will find something more suitable. It really is a system based on lies. I was told i could leave the placement and they would get me another. Now they say if they can't get me a new placement in two or three weeks i will be sent back to the labour and my money will most likely be cut. When the facts are i done everything they said and only took their advice. This really is a badly thought out idea. I have no problem working somewhere that i am learning about improving my skills and i am looking for work yet i will be cut for listening to their advice.

Then they make it out like they will do everything they can. When the fact is listening to their guidance is what has you in this situation. I was told that me benfitting was their main aim and it was understandable i left. Then the next time i spoke to them they said the dole will look at it that i left a placement and it looks like i don't want to work.

I didn't contact the INOU yet because i was busy looking for jobs and i don't think they can really help. Also they might get me a new placement in the next week or two. But i see no reason why i should be cut. I provided proof i am looking for work. I also stated i was willing to take up another placement. Why can't they let me back on the dole even if it takes 3 months to find me somewhere i would be willing to take the placement. At the end of the day they found me an unsuitable placement. I was told i could leave and the boss in the placement agreed it didn't suit. Now if they fail to get me a placement in the next few weeks i will be cut even though i just followed their advise. I think the system if run properly could be good but this is not really a way to treat people who are trying to seek employment.

Backstreet Moyes · 27-02-2013 4:39pm

dubscribe wrote: »

Nuts102, this is dreadful news to read, poor you. What an appalling way you have been treated. I know, essentially you sound like a timid and shy person but I'm sorry to say that this is one occasion where you will have to stand up for yourself and your rights.

Certainly the one thing I have learned from your experience is that if they say I don't have to accept an unsuitable job, I want it in writing. It would appear their word is unreliable. They tell you one thing and then do something else.

At this stage I would suggest you ask to meet with the overall supervisor of the Tus scheme in your area and ask him/her for an explanation as to why they want to reduce your dole money because they did not deliver on their word, ie a suitable placement. This is not your fault and you should not be penalised for it. These schemes always have a "right of appeal" policy/system, I suggest you engage with it now rather than wait until your dole is cut and then have to fight for it to be reinstated.

I also suggest you contact www.inou.ie - the National Organisation of the Unemployed. Tell them what's happening with you. They will definitely have good suggestions to offer you.

Hang in there. You have support with us.

TAKEN from INOU website:
Refusing an offer of Training
If you refuse an offer of training without just cause or good reason the Department of Social Protection may apply a penalty rate to your Jobseeker's Benefit/Jobseeker's Allowance payment. If this happens you may ask for a review of this decision. Please contact the INOU on (01) 856 0088 for information.

Do you know if INOU would contact the TUS office about my case or would they just reply to me.

JackieBurke · 27-02-2013 5:15pm

From what I have read of the scheme, TUS is separate from the department of social protection. All TUS do is tell the department about non compliant/under compliant people and it is a deciding officer in the department that actually causes money to be cut.

I would certainly press such a cut all the way to the social welfare appeals office

danjo-xx · 27-02-2013 8:09pm

The Tús initiative is managed by local development companies and Údarás na Gaeltachta for the Department of Social Protection, which has overall responsibility for the scheme.

@Nutts, After all the misinformation/half truth's/threats etc if It were me I think I would document everything that was said, and who said it and keep dates and even times.

I would call into Citizens Information Centre and discuss it with them, and ask them what is the best way to deal with this now, e.g. should you keep the dole office informed now on a regular basis, as they are the one's who will eventually decide if your going to be victimised or not by cutting your payment.

Backstreet Moyes · 04-03-2013 2:19pm

Didn't hear anything from TUS all last week so things not looking good seems they can't find me a job yet. Can anyone confirm that INOU do not contact TUS. I am planning on contacting INOU but don't want it getting back to TUS.

Torakx · 04-03-2013 7:20pm

Hi, posted this in the after hours thread on the same topic.
Then realised here would be better suited.
Bit panicky for some info.

Whats the deal with people doing 20 hours college a week?
Do they still cut your welfare if you say you dont want to accept a placement?

It would handicap me from progressing into a job! my course provides work placement hopefully at the end, in one of the fastest growing industries.
I really am not a fan of slave labour(especially while attending a full time course and studying all week, but I may be homeless if my welfare is cut right now.

Advice appreciated.

zenno · 05-03-2013 3:07pm

I got this TUS letter today as well.

Article 4: Prohibition on Slavery and Forced Labour

Not all forced labour will be considered to fall within Article 4, and paragraph (3) of the Article sets out a number of matters which will NOT be considered ‘forced or compulsory labour’. So military service, or community service as part of a sentence lawfully imposed by the Court will not be considered to fall within Article 4. Attempts have been made to argue that a requirement to do voluntary work as part of your professional training, a requirement to do work based training as a condition of entitlement to unemployment benefits, or a requirement to do jury service breached Article 4. The European Court of Human Rights rejected all such arguments.

So it looks like the European Court of Human Rights decided that this is not forced labour.

Were all screwed in this case.

Looks like i'll pick computer repair for computers that need to be sent to africa.

Now we all know why the government are saying there are less people on the live register...it's because they are all thrown onto this farce of a TUS programme of which the social welfare are finished with you.

mrbrown69 · 05-03-2013 6:14pm

zenno wrote: »

I got this TUS letter today as well.

Article 4: Prohibition on Slavery and Forced Labour

Not all forced labour will be considered to fall within Article 4, and paragraph (3) of the Article sets out a number of matters which will NOT be considered ‘forced or compulsory labour’. So military service, or community service as part of a sentence lawfully imposed by the Court will not be considered to fall within Article 4. Attempts have been made to argue that a requirement to do voluntary work as part of your professional training, a requirement to do work based training as a condition of entitlement to unemployment benefits, or a requirement to do jury service breached Article 4. The European Court of Human Rights rejected all such arguments.

So it looks like the European Court of Human Rights decided that this is not forced labour.

Were all screwed in this case.

Looks like i'll pick computer repair for computers that need to be sent to africa.

Now we all know why the government are saying there are less people on the live register...it's because they are all thrown onto this farce of a TUS programme of which the social welfare are finished with you.

Sounds like you're getting a little too worked up over it....think about it, it's just 19hrs a week...what else would you be doing in that time that's so important unless you have a job of some sort and are claiming (that could upset a few) ....you can still look for proper work and and if successful leave the programme at any time without obligations......also I believe these positions are interview based like a "real paying job" , if you're not keen well muck up the interview

Torakx · 05-03-2013 8:16pm

Well considering it is causing others in employment to lose jobs while companies fill those slots with people on the dole, I would say its worth everyone getting worked up about it.
This is a sure way to lower the minimum wage and since the landlords are not restricted or set any rules for pricing(which may be fair) there will be alot of people suffering because of this.
People who are already employed too.
Im in a full time course sometimes 4 days a week,so am curious what they expect from me.
I will lose money by taking a position and maybe my training and work experience and job placement.
All to fill some persons position most likely temporarily, to save the company hiring them for a standard to low wage.
The only reason the whole nation is not in uproar I think, is because they have no clue about it and it doesnt affect them right now, unless you lose your job, in which case you get labeled a lazy sponger.
Its an insane scam scheme, that charges the poor and unfortunates for the crimesfailings of bankers and politicians.Or so it seems anyway.

Backstreet Moyes · 05-03-2013 8:27pm

mrbrown69 wrote: »

Sounds like you're getting a little too worked up over it....think about it, it's just 19hrs a week...what else would you be doing in that time that's so important unless you have a job of some sort and are claiming (that could upset a few) ....you can still look for proper work and and if successful leave the programme at any time without obligations......also I believe these positions are interview based like a "real paying job" , if you're not keen well muck up the interview

You really have no idea until you are in the situation. People are losing money having to drive or get buses. Also some places you need shirts and pants and paying for lunches.

Also if you read back you can see the situation i am in when all i done was take their advice and now i am in trouble. If you get thrown in a place that doesn't suit you can't really leave. If you do your in trouble which you are not told about when you take the job. Even if i do get another job and it's a nightmare i could not turn around and complain about that.

I would have no problem if i got 19 hours a week in a job that was benefiting me i am glad to be out of the house.

mrbrown69 · 05-03-2013 8:35pm

Torakx wrote: »

Well considering it is causing others in employment to lose jobs while companies fill those slots with people on the dole, I would say its worth everyone getting worked up about it.
This is a sure way to lower the minimum wage and since the landlords are not restricted or set any rules for pricing(which may be fair) there will be alot of people suffering because of this.
People who are already employed too.
Im in a full time course sometimes 4 days a week,so am curious what they expect from me.
I will lose money by taking a position and maybe my training and work experience and job placement.
All to fill some persons position most likely temporarily, to save the company hiring them for a standard to low wage.
The only reason the whole nation is not in uproar I think, is because they have no clue about it and it doesnt affect them right now, unless you lose your job, in which case you get labeled a lazy sponger.
Its an insane scam scheme, that charges the poor and unfortunates for the crimesfailings of bankers and politicians.Or so it seems anyway.

My brother had an interview with a Tus officer, what he took from her is that positions filled are in non-profit organisations...she's putting him onto a place that has no full-time paid employees, it's all voluntary workers and Tus schemers......I can see both sides of the argument, in reality there is slim to no chance of getting full-time work at the end of this scheme so in that sense it's a waste of time....on the other hand it does get people back in the habit of being in a 'work environment'

Dunny · 05-03-2013 8:42pm

Im being taxed about 40 a week, is it worth going to the tax office because this is bull. I love my placement but thats ridiculous.

Torakx · 05-03-2013 11:09pm

Thats mad.
If I took an extra 20 hours thats minimum 40 a week.I already walk an hour in and out of town because i cant afford the bus and eat...
I heard many people losing more money because they took part in this scheme and tax on top would be the nail in the coffin, if it wasnt already hammered home on just losing my college work experience and course evaluation to this...if I am forced to do it. ^^
Tomorrow i will head into fas fo a letter stating my full time course attendance and then head into social welfare and find out whats up.

Backstreet Moyes · 05-03-2013 11:12pm

Dunny wrote: »

Im being taxed about 40 a week, is it worth going to the tax office because this is bull. I love my placement but thats ridiculous.

It's emergency tax go to your tax office and you will get it all back.

zenno · 06-03-2013 2:10am

mrbrown69 wrote: »

Sounds like you're getting a little too worked up over it....think about it, it's just 19hrs a week...what else would you be doing in that time that's so important unless you have a job of some sort and are claiming (that could upset a few) ....you can still look for proper work and and if successful leave the programme at any time without obligations......also I believe these positions are interview based like a "real paying job" , if you're not keen well muck up the interview

Not really. The thing i'm worried about is travel expenses as this would leave me with less than the €188 i get of which i'm seriously struggling at the moment so if i end up with less from this scheme then that's a problem, a big problem.

If i wasn't going to lose money I wouldn't really mind doing this if i was given a suitable TUS job and what i have being doing for the last 16 years is computer repair so i wouldn't mind if i worked at fixing them up for third world countries just for my dole.

The real joke is the fact that they do you for prsi out of the €20 top-up so paying bus fares all week or petrol is going to leave me with way less than what i'm on.

Is the 19.5 hours worked in three days or is it 4 hours a day ?

Dunny · 06-03-2013 3:15am

I do 4hrs a day.

mrbrown69 · 06-03-2013 9:58am

zenno wrote: »

Not really. The thing i'm worried about is travel expenses as this would leave me with less than the €188 i get of which i'm seriously struggling at the moment so if i end up with less from this scheme then that's a problem, a big problem.

If i wasn't going to lose money I wouldn't really mind doing this if i was given a suitable TUS job and what i have being doing for the last 16 years is computer repair so i wouldn't mind if i worked at fixing them up for third world countries just for my dole.

The real joke is the fact that they do you for prsi out of the €20 top-up so paying bus fares all week or petrol is going to leave me with way less than what i'm on.

Is the 19.5 hours worked in three days or is it 4 hours a day ?

The computer repair place is in Chapelizod and is 3x 6 and half hr days I beleive

danjo-xx · 06-03-2013 12:53pm

zenno wrote: »

The real joke is the fact that they do you for prsi out of the €20 top-up

Not if your earning less than €352 p.w.

Employees who earn €352 or less per week continue to have no liability to make a PRSI contribution and are not affected by the abolition of the weekly PRSI-Free Allowance.

http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/money_and_tax/budget_2013.html#prsi

Backstreet Moyes · 06-03-2013 3:54pm

I contacted INOU yesterday they emailed me back looking for my number and rang me this morning. They told me not to worry for now and if i end up having to meet with the dole they will help me out. They told me if the dole are going to cut me to make sure i get it in writing their reasons for doing so. After i told them my story they said they would help me and were reasuring. So anybody needing help i would recommend them.

mrbrown69 · 06-03-2013 9:21pm

The brother attended a "Health and safety" (HA!) programme today as part of this initiative, during which he was pulled aside by a Tus officer handed 2 forms and asked to fill and return them asap.....one form was for his bank details and the other which the officer failed to describe at the time was a "signing off" form for the social welfare stating the date he will be starting with Tus and when they can stop his benefit......the thing is he has not agreed to sign up with this, merely agreed to attend an interview at a placement he might or might not be interested in and might/might not even get in the first place......I've advised him to hold off on that 'signing off' form until he's had that interview because if he didn't get the place he'd be left in something of a pickle.....I realize it's the Tus officers job to get as many signed up as possible it's what they're paid to do and looks good on them to get as many as they can but to me it's seem pushy to say the least

Karen23 · 06-03-2013 9:31pm

Torakx wrote: »

Well considering it is causing others in employment to lose jobs while companies fill those slots with people on the dole, I would say its worth everyone getting worked up about it.

They say the position has to be created for you , you cannot replace someone else. Although I can't see why employers will take on and pay staff when they get someone for free.

zenno · 06-03-2013 9:34pm

mrbrown69 wrote: »

The brother attended a "Health and safety" (HA!) programme today as part of this initiative, during which he was pulled aside by a Tus officer handed 2 forms and asked to fill and return them asap.....one form was for his bank details and the other which the officer failed to describe at the time was a "signing off" form for the social welfare stating the date he will be starting with Tus and when they can stop his benefit......the thing is he has not agreed to sign up with this, merely agreed to attend an interview at a placement he might or might not be interested in and might/might not even get in the first place......I've advised him to hold off on that 'signing off' form until he's had that interview because if he didn't get the place he'd be left in something of a pickle.....I realize it's the Tus officers job to get as many signed up as possible it's what they're paid to do and looks good on them to get as many as they can but to me it's seem pushy to say the least

It doesn't make any sense to sign off before the interview so you are right to say that. If it doesn't work out he will have no money. That seems very strange that they told him to sign off.

Not if your earning less than €352 p.w.

I see. I was getting conflicting reports about this before. Thanks for that information danjo-xx

This TUS scheme is one hell of a scam the more i read into it, it shouldn't be allowed to continue.

mrbrown69 · 06-03-2013 9:46pm

zenno wrote: »

It doesn't make any sense to sign off before the interview so you are right to say that. If it doesn't work out he will have no money. That seems very strange that they told him to sign off.

I thought so too, particularly after she specified to him last week the interview much like a 'real' interview is at the interviewers discretion....he might not get that place and given what else was mentioned there was nothing that appealed, he could hardly go back to the social welfare after 1 week off :rolleyes:

Faith+1 · 06-03-2013 9:53pm

Great posts from all concerned. My friend is being forced into this however he intends to go back to education and has enquired in his local SW office can he leave the scheme early and apply for the BTEA.

He has been told no by all concerned in the SW office but the TUS placement officer is telling him he can so he is taking it further and not taking the placement. The SW is very under standing yet the local employment crowd are giving him sh*t.

It makes no logical sense to start a crappy placement at the expense of a 3rd level qualification.

Bunch of f*cking idiots in Tus, they don't care about anyone, all they want is to get people off their books and into forced labour.

mrbrown69 · 06-03-2013 10:06pm

Faith+1 wrote: »

Great posts from all concerned. My friend is being forced into this however he intends to go back to education and has enquired in his local SW office can he leave the scheme early and apply for the BTEA.

He has been told no by all concerned in the SW office but the TUS placement officer is telling him he can so he is taking it further and not taking the placement. The SW is very under standing yet the local employment crowd are giving him sh*t.

It makes no logical sense to start a crappy placement at the expense of a 3rd level qualification.

Bunch of f*cking idiots in Tus, they don't care about anyone, all they want is to get people off their books and into forced labour.

Tus are not the social welfare, they are people within local employment groups who are all under the thumb of the SW......what they are though are people who get paid for being a pain in the arse, 'helping people with opportunities' ?? real help would be having real links to real full time employment

Faith+1 · 06-03-2013 10:11pm

mrbrown69 wrote: »

Tus are not the social welfare, they are people within local employment groups who are all under the thumb of the SW......what they are though are people who get paid for being a pain in the arse, 'helping people with opportunities' ?? real help would be having real links to real full time employment

Couldn't agree more, My friends head is wrecked with the whole situation. Even the way he's addressed on the phone from Tus is beyond disgracful, he's been told they'll send his file to the relevant department stating that he's not co-operating with them, he's wrong about the BTEA and everyone in the SW is giving him the wrong information.

He say's he is signing sweet f*ck all as the SW have his back and understand he's going to college in Sep and the TUS programme is a load of bollocks.

zenno · 06-03-2013 10:12pm

mrbrown69 wrote: »

I thought so too, particularly after she specified to him last week the interview much like a 'real' interview is at the interviewers discretion....he might not get that place and given what else was mentioned there was nothing that appealed, he could hardly go back to the social welfare after 1 week off :rolleyes:

That's very dodgy indeed that the guy told him to sign off before he even went for the interview. He could be left without a cent and forced into something that is not suitable for him. But there again, these TUS people don't care because once they have you your screwed and also forced to comply in relation to any job they give you and if you do not comply they basically stop paying you.

I also think that whether a job you are given is suitable or not, the social welfare can use this against you and say that you are not genuinely seeking work as you should take anything that is offered they would say.

The pc repair that i would have asked for and done is no good to me now as another poster said it is in chapelizod and that is a long way away from where i am in swords co. dublin as travel expenses would eat into my normal €188 payment so i would be losing money doing this.

Nuts102

I hope everything works out for you.

I will be taking a trip down to citizens advice during the week to see what my options are regarding this TUS forced labour scam.

mrbrown69 · 06-03-2013 10:14pm

Faith+1 wrote: »

Couldn't agree more, My friends head is wrecked with the whole situation. Even the way he's addressed on the phone from Tus is beyond disgracful, he's been told they'll send his file to the relevant department stating that he's not co-operating with them, he's wrong about the BTEA and everyone in the SW is giving him the wrong information.

He say's he is signing sweet f*ck all as the SW have his back and understand he's going to college in Sep and the TUS programme is a load of bollocks.

Well that's a turn up, I was under the impression (well from this thread) it's the social welfare turning the screw and Tus bods doing their best to be "helpful"

mrbrown69 · 06-03-2013 10:20pm

zenno wrote: »

That's very dodgy indeed that the guy told him to sign off before he even went for the interview. He could be left without a cent and forced into something that is not suitable for him. But there again, these TUS people don't care because once they have you your screwed and also forced to comply in relation to any job they give you and if you do not comply they basically stop paying you.

I also think that whether a job you are given is suitable or not, the social welfare can use this against you and say that you are not genuinely seeking work as you should take anything that is offered they would say.

The pc repair that i would have asked for and done is no good to me now as another poster said it is in chapelizod and that is a long way away from where i am in swords co.ublin as travel expenses would eat into my normal €188 payment so i would be losing money doing this.

Yeah the computer place is where he's been referred to....the catch is there is zero chance of full time employment there, it's a charity place with only volunteers and Tus workers....but in her words to get a job it helps alot to be already in some sort of job, which is very true to an extent

the other catch is after the 12 months are up they wash their hands of you, Tus no longer applies to you so if not successful in the meantime with job applications you're left to deal with the social welfare sharks, I can see problems there

zenno · 06-03-2013 10:28pm

mrbrown69 wrote: »

Yeah the computer place is where he's been referred to....the catch is there is zero chance of full time employment there, it's a charity place with only volunteers and Tus workers....but in her words to get a job it helps alot to be already in some sort of job, which is very true to an extent

But it's not a job (as in a paying job) it is basically just voluntary work so i can't see this helping anyone get a real job.

According to other posters, after the 12 months of TUS you are then contacted again by the social welfare to do jobsbridge as an intern.

TUS Programme

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