Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
954. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Social Protection when a proposed change to a social welfare payment (details supplied) is expected to take effect; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1370/24]
View answerThe article referred to by the Deputy relates to Pay-Related Benefit for Jobseekers.
I recently secured the approval of Government to proceed with legislation for Pay-Related Benefit for Jobseekers. This represents a major step in what will be a fundamental reform of the social welfare system which will align the rate of benefit with prior earnings.
The weekly rate of payment for people who have at least five years of paid PRSI contributions will be set at 60% of previous earnings, subject to a maximum of €450, for the first three months. After that, the rate will reduce to 55% of earnings, subject to a maximum of €375, for the following three months. A further three months will be paid at the rate of 50% up to a maximum of €300 payment.
For persons who have between two and five years of paid contributions, the rate will be set at 50% of previous earnings, subject to a maximum of €300 per week, and will be of six months' duration.
I have referred the general scheme of the draft legislation to give effect to Pay-Related Benefit for Jobseekers to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands for pre-legislative scrutiny.
My Department will work on the necessary arrangements to facilitate the introduction of this scheme in Quarter 4 of this year.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
