The Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA) scheme offers support for people who are long-term unemployed and who are interested in self-employment as a route to entering the labour market. The scheme plays a vital role in supporting the development of new enterprises for the long term unemployed. The BTWEA is payable to self-employed individuals for a 24 month period from the commencement of their new business.
All participants of the BTWEA will be in a position to receive their full period of entitlement of 24 months. This includes anyone who contacted my Department to temporarily suspend their allowance while their business closed. Where someone sought a suspension of their BTWEA, they can avail of the remainder of their 24 months on reopening their business.
I trust this clarifies the position.