Image: Alamy Stock Photo A PROPOSED OVERHAUL of the jobseeker’s benefit could change the payment structure to make it directly proportional to the recipient’s previous earnings.
Others who were working “part-time or on a casual basis” would continue to be eligible for the existing jobseeker’s benefit. The corresponding payment rates are €93.30, €134.20, €162.90 and €208, with some increases available if the recipient has a dependant child or adult. Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys described Ireland as an “outlier” in that “we are one of the only EU countries that doesn’t have a Pay-Related Benefit system”.
“I believe the introduction of a Pay Related Benefit system could be one of the key legacies of the pandemic but it’s important that we get it right.”