Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 April 2023
291. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when jobseeker’s allowance will be reinstated in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18662/23]
View answerJobseeker's Allowance (JA) is a means-tested payment made to people who are unemployed and who do not qualify for Jobseeker's Benefit. Amongst other qualifying conditions a person must be capable of work and available for full-time work.
According to the records of my Department, the person concerned was awarded JA with effect from 19/12/2022. Following the person’s commencement of part-time employment on 07/02/2023, a review of entitlement based on means from income was undertaken and his JA rate was adjusted accordingly. The person was required to submit casual dockets confirming his days of work each week.
On 16/03/2023, the person concerned informed Social Welfare Branch Office (SWBO) in Maynooth by email that he was out of the State from 13-17th March and had to extend his trip for medical reasons. A holiday form had not been completed by the person either in the SWBO or online prior to his departure as is required under current guidelines.
The SWBO emailed the person to ascertain if he was abroad, but no response was received. The person’s JA claim was subsequently closed as no further casual dockets had been provided and date of return to the State had not been confirmed.
The SWBO was recently advised by the person concerned that he had returned to the State on 12/04/2023. The person was advised to apply for JA online at www.MyWelfare.ie. To-date the person has not made an application for JA.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
