Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 6

Written Answers. - Job Initiative.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

125 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the Christmas bonus payment which participants in the job initiative scheme will receive in 2000; the way in which the Christmas bonus is calculated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27267/00]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

Those job initiative participants who had entitlements to secondary benefits, including the Christmas bonus, prior to commencing on JI, can now retain these benefits subject to the general retention conditions pertaining to secondary benefits.

The Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs will pay the Christmas bonus to participants on JI. The payment is calculated by reference to the participants previous Social Welfare entitlement and will be 100% of that amount paid at the current rate.