Social Protection Committee to discuss the pay-related jobseeker’s benefit scheme strawman with representatives from the Department of Social Protection

Speaking ahead of the meeting Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Denis Naughten said: “The Minister for Social Protection published the strawman proposal last year setting out the broad parameters of one approach to this topic. The main rationale for pay-related benefits is that people entering unemployment often do so with established financial and other commitments and often face a sudden drop in income in the immediate aftermath of a job loss. The maximum amount a person can receive per week on the Jobseekers Allowance is €220 per week while additional allowances are given for adult and child dependents.”

"Having regard to the pay-related systems which are common across Europe, the strawman consultation paper published in December 2022 sets out a possible model of reform for consideration. It proposes to provide a more effective cushion from the income shock of unemployment."

"While the strawman primarily focuses on jobseekers, feedback will also help to inform the consideration of potential changes to other short-term schemes, such as Parent’s Benefit and Illness Benefit."

“We look forward to discussing these and other related matters with representatives.”

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Note to Editors: A strawman is an illustrative working model used for discussion and consideration