asked the Minister for Social Welfare if there is cause for concern regarding abuses by employers of the minimum number of hours worked required for social welfare cover; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Abuses of Social Welfare Requirement.
124.
Part time workers who are employed for less than 18 hours per week and who are not mainly dependent on their earnings from the employment are insurable at a modified rate which gives cover for occupational injuries benefits only.
The fact that the criterion for full insurability is based on the number of hours worked in a week means that employers who employ workers for less than 18 hours are liable only for a reduced employers PRSI contribution. Employees in this situation are not covered for the benefits of the social insurance system.
I am concerned to ensure that the protection of the social insurance system is available on an appropriate basis to part time workers, subject to the need to ensure that entitlements to full weekly benefits are not obtained on the basis of minimal contributions. It may be necessary in this connection to change the present criteria for insurability. I am examining this whole area at present and I hope to bring forward proposals at an early date.