Irish workers who are let go from their jobs as a result of new restrictions have been given another lifeline by the Irish government.
It was confirmed over the weekend that officials are working to reopen applications for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment for those struggling amid the recent surge.
With nightclubs being shut once more, and new restrictions limiting bars, restaurants and other venues this festive season, it’s likely thousands will return to unemployment.
Although a tapering off of the available Covid support schemes has been in effect in recent months, Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohow has said it’s likely the full payments will resume.
Mr Donohoe told Newstalk that he expects the PUP rate will return at its original sum of €350 for those made unemployed following new restrictions.
Speaking on 'On The Record With Gavan Reilly', the minister said he was not aware of any plans to hand out a lower rate of payment to new applicants.
“My expectation is that it will be paid at the higher rate,” he said.
“We absolutely appreciate that there are some who are working in, for example, nightclubs, to give a very concrete example, that now find that their employment has gone nearly overnight.
“And we fully understand and appreciate the shock that that has created for those who are working in that sector.
“So Minister Humphreys will outline that plan in the coming days.
“But I’ll simply say that we appreciate that there is a group of workers in a really important part of our hospitality sector in particular who are finding themselves unemployed again within a year and we have a particular responsibility to them.”
Just days ago, Minister for the Arts Catherine Martin said an additional €25 million has been secured to support the live entertainment industry in light of recent developments.
In a tweet, she said: “I know many workers will be worried tonight.
“The Pandemic Unemployment Payment will reopen for applications for workers impacted by the latest restrictions.
“My Department will work on this as a matter of urgency and full details will be announced over coming days.”
