The Social Protection Minister says she plans to defer cuts to the rate of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment.
That was due to happen from February, and the Government was planning to reduce the number of payment bands.
However, Minister Heather Humphreys says in light of the new Level 5 restrictions she plans to delay that move:
"I have to consult with my Government colleagues."
"But my hope is that the PUP will continue at the current rates until the end of March, but I have to get agreement from cabinet."
EXCLUSIVE: Planned cuts to the rate of Pandemic Unemployment Payment early next year to be deferred https://t.co/2bIYySgfUC
— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) December 23, 2020
Pandemic Unemployment Payment Rate 'Should' Continue
Minister Heather Humphreys says it's her view that the rate shouldn't change in February.
However she says it'll need approval from cabinet before any concrete decision:
"With all of the concerns you have around Christmas and money worries and that so I will have to consult with my Government colleagues."
"But my view at this stage is that, given the current rates of the virus, the current rate of PUP should continue to the end of March."
"We can review it then at that stage."
"Depending on the rates of the virus."
