Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
698. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if payment at the same rate will continue in the case of a person (details supplied); if the Covid-19 pandemic unemployment payment is more applicable in these circumstances; if every effort can be made to ensure the payment is not reduced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21815/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAccording to the records of my Department, the person concerned has been in receipt of a casual Jobseeker’s Benefit payment since 07/10/2019.
Records reflect that their employment ceased on 18/03/2020. If employment ended as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and if the person concerned fulfils other qualifying criteria she may be entitled to a Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP).
In advance of applying for the PUP, the person concerned should check the eligibility criteria on www.gov.ie/DEASP as she must request that her current Jobseeker's Benefit payment be suspended before applying. The person concerned can contact the Maynooth Branch Office which will be in a position to assist her if necessary.
If the person concerned wishes to apply for the PUP she should do so by 17/09/2020.
Alternatively, the person concerned may be eligible for a Jobseeker’s Allowance payment which is a means-tested payment. Until a means test is undertaken it is not possible to advise what rate of payment the person concerned may be entitled to.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
