Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2023
831. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social Protection if she has plans to streamline the system for early years educators who have to undertake a full application for jobseeker's support each time the school is closed for a break; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13326/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe process in respect of all jobseeker's payments including part-time workers and early years educators in the educational sector is kept under review. In general, there is no delay in processing jobseeker benefit claims if the relevant claim application forms and supporting documentation are completed by the customer in a timely manner.
Seasonal workers including early years educators workers should apply for jobseeker’s benefit as soon as they become unemployed.
Every person who finds themselves unemployed and wishing to apply for a jobseeker's payment completes the full application form at the time of their initial claim and a repeat jobseeker's form for any subsequent claims until that jobseeker 's claim period of entitlement ends. Applications can be made online and the online channel can be a more convenient and timely method for many applicants.
Educational sector workers, who are employed on a temporary basis and who have previously been in contact with the Department, are issued with a repeat jobseeker’s application form and holiday form in advance of the school holiday periods. This advance process facilitates an efficient service to these customers and allows for speedy processing of their claim when the period of unemployment actually arises.
However, it is important to note that educational sector workers including early years educators are still required to sign on for each period of unemployment and satisfy all the qualifying conditions for jobseeker’s benefit including the 3 waiting days at the start of the claim if it does not link to a previous jobseeker's claim.
I want to assure the Deputy that all Scheme areas are monitored on an on-going basis and processing procedures are reviewed to ensure that claims are paid to customers as quickly as possible.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
