Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 July 2020
35. Deputy Kieran O'Donnell asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if persons in receipt of the pandemic unemployment payment will receive PRSI contributions in order that their future entitlements are not impacted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18797/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe COVID 19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment was introduced in March 2020 as a time-limited emergency measure to meet the surge in unemployment which resulted from the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Government approval has been secured to legislate for workers in receipt of the pandemic Unemployment Payment and the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme, who are currently not subject to a PRSI charge, to be granted paid contributions for the duration of the emergency measures. This will be important in order to protect a person’s entitlement to future payments - both long-term payments such as pensions and shorter term payments such as Illness, Maternity and Paternity Benefits which require a contribution record up to the date at which benefit is claimed.
The Social Welfare (Covid-19) (Amendment) Bill 2020 provides for paid social insurance contributions in respect of people who are in receipt of the pandemic unemployment payment or availing of the Temporary Wage Subsidy scheme and has completed the First Stage in Dail Éireann.
I trust this clarifies the position at this time.
