Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
1117. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if the pandemic unemployment payment will continue after 8 June 2020; if so, the length of time; the rate which will be paid; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9101/20]
View answer1124. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the date to which the pandemic unemployment payment will be extended to; and if the current rate of the payment will be maintained throughout the Covid-19 period. [9295/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1117 and 1124 together.
The COVID-19 unemployment payment was introduced as a time limited emergency measure to meet the surge in unemployment which resulted from the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic and the final payment is due to be made on 9th June 2020.
As we gradually move through the phases of reopening our society and the economy, we need to assess the Pandemic Unemployment Payment and see how it fits into cross-Government plans to keep Ireland healthy and get the country working again. Any future decisions will be based on our commitment that everyone who needs help will get the most appropriate assistance and also according to the evidence we receive from the reopening of the economy. Arrangements for supports paid after 9th June will be considered by Government as part of its broad based approach to management of the emergency across all sectors of the economy and society.
I trust this clarifies the position at this time.
