Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 February 2018
80. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the reason long-term unemployed persons are advised that they can retain their benefits when they return to work through JobPath; the difference between jobseeker's allowance and a casual jobseeker’s allowance payment which is preventing persons from retaining benefits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8396/18]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware JobPath is one of a range of activation services provided by my Department to support and assist long term unemployed jobseekers to find full time sustainable employment. All of the activation services available, either directly from Intreo Case Officers or the external contractors such as the JobPath and Local Employment Service companies provide information and assistance to their clients regarding the financial benefits of finding sustainable employment. This includes advice on departmental and other income supports that may be available to those who move from a dependence on jobseeker payments into either full time or part time employment. There are a number of in-work income supports available from my Department including Working Family Payment (formerly known as Family Income Supplement) and Back to Work Family Dividend. In addition the person may retain entitlement to other supports provided by other Government Departments and Agencies such as Medical Cards and Housing Assistance Payments.
For those who find casual employment, they may retain an entitlement to a reduced jobseeker's payment, this is dependent on the number of days worked and the level of income which will be subject to a means assessment. All decisions regarding a person’s welfare entitlements are taken only by Department Officials.
