A number of changes to the Pandemic Unemployment Payment came into effect today alongside a lengthy list of restrictions being eased.
The update will see applications shut once more as Ireland makes a swift return to normality amid the current pandemic.
Therefore from today, January 22 the PUP has officially closed to new applicants just hours after the government announced its latest plans for Ireland's response to Covid.
With the easing of most measures, businesses will be reopening and thousands will finally be heading back to work.
Therefore, the first payment change will occur from March 8, which means anyone that is still in receipt of the PUP will move to a weekly rate of €208 - marking a four-week extension to what was previously planned for.
Then from April 5, PUP recipients will start transitioning to the standard jobseeker payment, but only if they remain eligible.
Speaking about the latest changes, the Minister for Social Protection said: “The Pandemic Unemployment Payment has been an absolutely vital support for workers and their families.
“What was originally intended to be just a six-week short-term payment will now last for over two years with over €9 Billion in payments issued to workers.
“In line with the widespread lifting of restrictions from tomorrow, the Government has today approved plans for the winding down of the PUP over the coming months.
“The decision to lift restrictions represents a hugely positive step which will see tens of thousands of people return to work over the coming weeks as the country begins to return to normal.”
In order to be eligible for the standard job seekers allowance, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be fully unemployed (or work for 3 days a week or less)
- Be available for full-time work and genuinely seeking work
- Be capable of work
- Pass a means test
- Meet the habitual residence condition
