Jobseeker's benefit (JB) is a weekly payment to people out of work and covered by social insurance. If a person does not qualify for JB they may qualify for means tested jobseeker's allowance. In 2012 my Department spent over €3.8 billion on the schemes and at the end of 2012 there were some 390,000 persons in receipt of payment under these schemes.
Unlike other jobseekers, part-time fire fighters are entitled to a JB payment in respect of days that they are engaged in fire fighting or training. They are, however, required to satisfy the statutory conditions for the receipt of a jobseeker’s payment of being available for and genuinely seeking work. However, the requirement that they reside and work in proximity to the fire station of their brigade may, subject to the circumstances of an individual case, unreasonably restrict the location where they can accept work and limit their prospects of obtaining work. It is a matter for Deciding Officers to make a decision based on the circumstances of each case.
The Department is currently examining the position of these workers vis-à-vis the jobseeker’s schemes and the unusual employment circumstances of retained fire brigade personnel. This includes consideration of the availability for work criteria. As part of this process the Department is in discussions with the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. However, final decisions have not been made with regard to potential changes to existing arrangements. I am aware that this issue is taking some time to conclude but it is complex and unique. There is a need to strike a reasonable balance between the requirements of the fire brigade services of local authorities on the one hand and equity with the treatment of other job seekers on the other. I have asked the Department to conclude its examination as a matter of urgency.
