Social Welfare Code Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 January 2013

Wednesday, 16 January 2013

Questions (442)

Áine Collins

Question:

442. Deputy Áine Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection in view of the fact that the Operative Plasterers and Allied Trades Society of Ireland are concerned by the inability of the members to take up offers of short-term work because of the negative impact this would have on reclaiming social welfare when the work was complete, her proposals to deal with this issue as it would save on social welfare payments and increase tax revenue if a solution could be found. [58092/12]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

If a jobseeker finds employment, s/he must inform their Social Welfare Local Office.

A shortened application form and a streamlined claim decision process has been introduced for those returning to the live register having been in temporary employment, or having participated in short-term training. In cases where a jobseeker finds employment for up to eight weeks, the claim remains open with the payment suspended. In this way, payment can be restored without delay after the work has finished, provided there is no relevant change in the person’s circumstances.

Question No. 443 withdrawn.