The Government has announced a relaxation of restrictions on the operation of the FÁS Employment Scheme (FES).
The move, which represents a change of policy following cuts in the scheme since 2002, should provide an additional 6,000 places for various local initiatives covered by the scheme.
The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mr Martin announced the changes today following what he described as a "consultative process with the social partners and key stakeholders".
Significant cuts were made to community employment schemes following the 2002 general election with numbers dropping from over 30,000 to a little over 19,000 last year.
The Government says the changes announced today should lead to 25,000 places overall next year, an increase of 6,000.
Fianna Fáil backbenchers have been campaigning for an increase in the numbers on the schemes for over a year, against resistance from the former minister for finance, Mr Charlie McCreevy, and the Tánaiste, Ms Harney.
The changes mean there will be no compulsory lay-offs on the Job Initiative Scheme (JIS) and participants who remain on the scheme will have their contracts renewed.
For community employment participants, the three-year cap will be removed for the over-55's.
With immediate effect, over-55's will be eligible to participate on community employment for a maximum of six years.
Commenting on the changes, Minister Martin said, "despite the buoyant labour market, the continuing high level of inward migration and low unemployment, there is still a need for these schemes for people who find it difficult to secure employment."