Social Welfare Code Review

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 May 2013

Wednesday, 29 May 2013

Questions (16)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

16. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if she is satisfied that the current social protection system possesses sufficient flexibility for the fluid movement of people between employment and unemployment in view of the fact that many retailers have expressed frustration that they cannot fill temporary seasonal staff positions because of the difficulties and delays that they would encounter re-registering for social protection payments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25861/13]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

Where a person states that they have found work, it is normal practice for a jobseeker claim to be closed. However, in cases where the customer is taking up a short period of temporary work or training (up to 8 weeks), arrangements are now in place to simplify the process of returning to the live register at the end of this period. In these cases, instead of closing the claim, payment is suspended temporarily for the duration of the work or training course. When the person signs on again after the period of work or training, the claim can be reactivated without delay and payment restored. Where a person accepts an offer of short term temporary work or training it is important to advise the local office in advance of the expected duration so that the process I describe is put in place.