I propose to take Questions Nos. 18, 19, 62 and 64 together.
The Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) was introduced in March and was specifically designed to support firm viability and preserve the relationship between the employer and employee insofar as is possible through the lockdown period, in circumstances where the employer’s business had been negatively impacted by COVID-19.
It is acknowledged that this economy-wide scheme was developed in a very short period of time having regard to the overarching urgent Government objective of getting assistance to employers and employees as quickly as possible.
Since it was introduced, over 50,000 firms have availed of the scheme (which is almost a third of all employers from 2019). Over 500,000 jobs have been directly supported over the period and many more indirectly. This is considerable coverage and it is noted that the value of payments made to-date is over €2 billion.
As the public health restrictions are eased, the challenge for the economy and enterprises is evolving. Having regard to the novel circumstances surrounding the re-opening of the economy as well as the need to avoid the risk of forcing otherwise viable firms to close, it was announced early last month that the TWSS will remain until the end of August. Work is currently ongoing around how best to support employers into the more medium term, including consideration of support for seasonal workers and new hires. As per the commitment in the Programme for Government, it is planned that the July Jobs Initiative will set out a pathway for the future implementation of the TWSS.