Susan Murray (33) has been working for Tesco Ireland for 10 years. She has an intellectual disability and is on the "top rate of pay for a member of our floor staff" according to Michael Proctor, personnel manager of the company's branch in Dundrum, Dublin.
Yesterday, Ms Murray was working in the "peas and beans" section, stocking shelves and helping customers find items.
She works from 9am to 4.30pm three days a week and also presents a radio programme on Dublin station Anna Livia.
"I like working here. They don't treat me too bad," she laughs.
Séamus Banim, communications manager for Tesco Ireland says the company is not part of the Wage Subsidy Scheme (WSS).
"Everyone who applies for a job with us is assessed on their merits. Simple as that," he said.
In Navan, Co Meath, Margaret O'Rourke (52) is employed under the WSS by Rehab Enterprises. The firm makes chemical-resistant Tyvek garments for Du Pont. Among its products are the white jumpsuits worn by Garda forensic scientists.
Ms O'Rourke said she had been there almost 12 years.
"I check the garments, make sure there are no faults, that all the stitching is right. Oh, you'd have to have your eyes about you." She works five days a week and is paid, she says, €310.81 a week. "I do enjoy it. Oh they are very nice people here and we have good breaks."
Rehab's Cliona O'Neill praised the WSS. "We find those we employ on it super-dedicated, perfectionists in their work and very efficient. It's very positive for everyone involved and we would really encourage other employers to look at getting involved."
