Efficiency of the Expanded Programme of Public Works in the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries – Spending Review Report

1. INTRODUCTION BACKGROUND In the face of high levels of poverty, unprecedented levels of unemployment and inequality, the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) established in 2004, is positioned as a key programme to contribute to achieving government’s goals of halving unemployment, building communities and active citizenship and reducing gaps in the social protection system of the country. Government spending on public employment programmes can reduce poverty directly, by raising the real disposable income of poor households.