Martin Heydon
Ceist:130. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Finance if he has considered an extension of the wage subsidy scheme to include self-employed persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6859/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 20 May 2020
Ceisteanna (130)
Freagraí scríofa
The legislation underpinning the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) is contained in Section 28 of the Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Act 2020. Of necessity, the legislation and the scheme itself were developed very quickly to support the urgent Government objective of getting much needed assistance to employers and employees that have been seriously affected by the pandemic.
The TWSS builds on data returned to Revenue through its real-time PAYE system. The self-employed are not taxed under the PAYE system. It must be accepted that the underlying legislation and the scheme itself simply cannot be tailored to meet every individual unique set of circumstances.
The TWSS in its current form allows the concentration of resources to protect incomes, in a proportionate way having regard to available resources, employer contribution and the broader suite of COVID-19 related supports put in place by the Government.
As you are aware, the Government has announced a range of measures designed to support businesses during the COVID-19 crisis, details of which are available at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/fe8f00-government-outlines-further-measures-to-support-businesses-impacted-/.
Currently, I have no plans to extend the TWSS to self-employed persons. However, the Deputy may wish to be aware that the Pandemic Unemployment Payment mentioned in the above Press Release is available to self-employed persons.