Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2020
573. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Social Protection if pandemic unemployment payment recipients will still receive the Christmas bonus on 7 December 2020 if they return to work when the level 5 restrictions are lifted on 2 December 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36366/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of Budget 2021, I was very happy to secure Government approval that the 2020 Christmas Bonus will be paid this year at a rate of 100%.
This bonus payment recognises the needs of people who are long-term financially dependent on their social welfare payment for all or most of their income.
In addition, in light of the exceptional circumstances arising from the pandemic, and on a once off basis, the bonus will be paid this year to certain Pandemic Unemployment Payment and Jobseeker recipients who are currently in receipt of these payments and have been for an aggregate of at least 4 months since the PUP payment was introduced in March.
Payment of the Christmas Bonus will be included with payments issuing during week commencing 7 December. In the case of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment, this relates to payments received by individuals on 8 December. These payments are in respect of the week from Friday 27 November to Thursday 3 December. A person who returns to work on 2 December and advises my Department of that fact when closing their claim, is entitled to payment for the week ended 3 December. Accordingly, they will receive payment of the Christmas Bonus on 8 December if they are otherwise qualified for payment.
I hope that this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
