Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2020
516. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) that has been on the temporary wage subsidy scheme since 30 March is entitled to any arrears of social welfare payment, jobseekers benefit or otherwise; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24924/20]
View answerIn the case where a person has had a reduction in their days of employment, the Department has clarified that, subject to satisfying the relevant eligibility criteria, employees may claim casual Jobseeker’s 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.
According to the records of my Department, the person concerned was awarded a Jobseeker’s Benefit payment with effect from 03/09/2020 and received his first payment on 15/09/2020.
Decisions around entitlement to social welfare claims for periods prior to the introduction of the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme on 01/09/2020 will depend on meeting the eligibility conditions, including satisfying the Department with regard to days of unemployment. Applications are assessed on an individual basis and the Department will notify the person concerned of the outcome of its decision. Arrears due, if any, will be considered in the context of each individual claim.
If the person concerned is experiencing financial hardship she may access assistance under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme including Exceptional and Urgent Needs Payments through the Community Welfare Service in the Newbridge Intreo Centre. This service can be contacted by phone at (087) 7806165.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
