Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 July 2023
167. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Social Protection if she is aware of the extreme difficulties often presented for many workers in the early years sector and other sections of the broader education system in making claims for jobseeker's payments at the end of school terms; if she will commit to streamlining this system in order to make it more efficient and effective for claimants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34746/23]
View answerThe process in respect of all jobseeker's payments including those working in the early years sector and other educational sector workers is kept under review. In general, there is no delay in processing jobseeker benefit claims if the relevant claim application forms and supporting documentation are completed by the customer in a timely manner.
Seasonal workers including early years workers should apply for Jobseeker’s Benefit as soon as they become unemployed.
Every person who finds themselves unemployed and wishing to apply for a jobseeker's payment completes the full application form at the time of their initial claim and a repeat jobseeker's form for any subsequent claims until that jobseeker's claim period of entitlement ends. Applications can be made online and the online channel can be a more convenient and a timely method for many applicants.
Educational sector workers, who are employed on a temporary basis and who have previously been in contact with the Department, are issued with a repeat jobseeker’s application form and holiday entitlement form in advance of the school holiday periods. This advance process facilitates an efficient service to these customers and allows for speedy processing of their claim when the period of unemployment actually arises.
However, it is important to note that educational sector workers including early years educators are still required to sign on for each period of unemployment and satisfy all the qualifying conditions for Jobseeker’s Benefit including being available for full-time work and genuinely seeking work.
I want to assure the Deputy that all Scheme areas are monitored on an on-going basis and processing procedures are reviewed to ensure that claims are paid to customers as quickly as possible.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
