Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2020
52. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason the seasonal workers who were not in employment by 13 March 2020 remain excluded from the Covid-19 pandemic unemployment payment in view the fact that the date for applications has been extended; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25163/20]
View answerThe Pandemic Unemployment Payment has been put on a statutory basis since 5th August and I have announced that the scheme will remain open to new applicants until the end of the year. This means that anyone who loses their employment as a result of the pandemic will continue to be able to avail of the payment. It also means that anyone laid off for a second time will be able to avail of the payment. A seasonal worker who did not have an opportunity to take up employment may be eligible for employment under the jobseekers schemes. Further information on these supports are available at www.gov.ie. I trust this clarifies the position.
