Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 November 2021
401. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will address a matter regarding the pandemic unemployment payment (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56010/21]
View answerSince the gradual lifting of restrictions the number of customers receiving PUP has fallen dramatically to approximately 60,400 compared to an earlier peak this year of 481,000 in February and a peak of more than 600,000 in 2020. It is important therefore in the interests of equity and sustainability to restore standard social welfare payments in a careful and considered manner.
Generally, a person cannot receive a Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's (Contributory) Pension and another social welfare payment at the same time as a jobseekers payment. Given the unprecedented circumstances of Covid-19, special provision was made for PUP to be paid concurrently with certain other specified social welfare payments.
In line with Government’s Economic Recovery Plan, Government agreed to taper the payment of PUP between September and next February 2022 to align it with the standard jobseekers terms. The rates of payment are being reduced on a phased basis, on 14 September and 16 November, with a further reduction due to take effect from 8 February 2022.
As people move on to the €203 rate they are transitioned to standard social welfare terms. This includes those in receipt of other weekly social welfare payments. This measure is to ensure equity of treatment with those who lost their employment before Covid restrictions and those who have lost it since 8 July when the PUP scheme closed to new applicants. Recipients of other weekly concurrent payments, although will lose their entitlement to PUP, will continue to receive their weekly primary payment, such as the Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's (Contributory) Pension, once they continue to satisfy the conditions of the scheme.
Supports are available from the Department's Public Employment Service to assist people to return to employment.
I trust that this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
