Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 September 2020
96. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Social Protection if the anomalies affecting a number of Aer Lingus employees (details supplied) will be addressed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24268/20]
View answer97. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection the benefits workers are entitled to claim when they are not working but are still on their employers' books and their employer is in receipt of the employment wage subsidy scheme; and the related hours and wage thresholds. [24283/20]
View answer98. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection the benefits workers on reduced working hours are entitled to claim when their employer is in receipt of the employment wage subsidy scheme; and the related hours and wage thresholds. [24284/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 96 to 98, inclusive, together.
The Department has advised that subject to satisfying the relevant eligibility criteria, employees may claim casual (i.e. part-time) jobseeker payments or Short-Time Work Support payments for days of unemployment, even where their employer is claiming the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme for days of employment. The normal scheme rules and application processes apply, including completion of the relevant forms by the employer to certify days of employment and unemployment. Officials from the Department have engaged with the employer concerned and advised of this position. Applications for support from this date are being prioritised.
The position regarding any retrospective entitlement to jobseekers payments prior to the introduction of the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme will depend on meeting the eligibility conditions, including satisfying the Department with regard to days of unemployment. There applications are assessed on an individual basis having regard to the facts of each case and the rules of the schemes concerned.
Any legal obligations that the employer may have to their employee as regards terms, conditions or entitlements of their employment, including pay, is a matter for the employer.
I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputies.
