Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
839. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Social Protection if a childcare worker who is unable to work due to living with an extremely high-risk relative is entitled to the pandemic unemployment payment. [32386/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Pandemic Unemployment Payment Scheme is available to employees and self- employed people who have lost their employment and the income from that employment due to the pandemic, and who satisfy the other qualifying conditions of the scheme. The scheme is not available to an individual in the circumstances as set out by the Deputy.
People in the situation outlined who are experiencing financial hardship may be able to access financial support available under the means tested Supplementary Welfare Allowance.
From the outset of Covid-19, many employers will have taken the initiative to be as flexible as possible to support their staff. A person can also contact the Health and Safety Authority if they are concerned about how their workplace is responding to social distancing or other measures.
I trust this clarifies the position.
