Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 March 2021
578. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider extending the back-to-work enterprise schemes for an additional 12 months, given the impact restrictions have had on participants. [12761/21]
View answer581. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection if an extension will be allowed to the back to work scheme due to Covid-19 (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12854/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 578 and 581 together.
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 and is payable for a 24 month period from the commencement of their new business.
All participants of the BTWEA will receive their full period of entitlement of 24 months and, therefore, will not lose out on the support. This includes anyone who contacted the Department to suspend their allowance while their business closed during Covid related restrictions. Where someone suspended their BTWEA, they can avail of the remainder of their 24 months on reopening their business. There are no plans to provide for an extension of this period.
Individuals whose BTWEA entitlement is expiring in August may be entitled to support under the Jobseekers schemes depending on their circumstances at that time.
Details on all the supports available for self-employed individuals is available on www.gov.ie
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputies.
