Over 800 people on the dole in Dublin are starting work in the four local authorities around the city. Anyone who refuses to take part in the new scheme could have their social welfare cut or stopped.

The initiative is called 'Gateways' and is similar to Job Bridge. It is part of a nationwide scheme to get the long-term unemployed back to work.

According to the Irish Times, people will work nearly 20 hours a week for just under two years, and will get an extra €20 top up-on their weekly dole payment.

Dublin City Council is taking on 295 workers, South Dublin and Fingal have 215 each - while 110 jobseekers will take up work in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown.

The indoor and outdoor jobs involve working in parks, roads and environmental services as well as IT support.

People selected by the Department of Social Protection must take up the work or risk having their dole cut or stopped altogether.