Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 February 2022
499. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection if recipients of jobseeker’s payments will be afforded flexibility regarding their payments being made to bank accounts in circumstances in which recipients have direct debits and bills set up with their banks which would cause significant inconvenience should they be required to collect their payment in person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7753/22]
View answerWhen public health restrictions were introduced in 2020, people in receipt of Social Welfare payments were given the option of being paid into a bank account. This was an exceptional measure to help reduce the spread of the virus and ensure people could comply with social distancing guidelines.
Due to the current easing of restrictions and following consultation with An Post and the Irish Postmaster’s Union (IPU), it has been decided that jobseeker payments will now return to being paid by the Post Office Network. This move will bring additional footfall to post offices as well as helping to combat social welfare fraud.
The changes will apply initially to all new jobseeker applicants before being extended to other jobseekers in due course.
