Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 October 2021
231. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider extending or renewing receipt of the back to work enterprise allowance to new enterprises that received the payment just prior to the implementation of Covid-19 restrictions which forced them to close, thereby substantially impacting on the two-year eligibility criterion for the allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51760/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA) scheme offers support for people who are long-term unemployed and who are interested in self-employment as a route to entering the labour market. The scheme plays a vital role in supporting the development of new enterprises for the long-term unemployed and is payable for up to a 24-month period from the commencement of their new business.
All participants of the BTWEA can receive their full period of entitlement of 24 months and, therefore, should not lose out on the support. This includes anyone who contacted the Department to suspend their allowance while their business closed during Covid related restrictions. Where someone suspended their BTWEA, they can avail of the remainder of their 24 months on reopening their business. There are no plans to provide for an extension of this period.
Where a person’s entitlement to BTWEA exhausts and they are continuing to operate at reduced levels of business activity there may be alternative income supports available depending on the individual’s circumstances, including support under the means tested Jobseeker's Allowance scheme.
If the Deputy is referring to a specific individual, I would advise the person to contact their local Intreo Centre for advice.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
