Unemployment among the young is a particular concern for the Government. We want to encourage them to stay close to the labour market while providing a rate of assistance that compares well with other jurisdictions, particularly the UK and the counties of Northern Ireland. The Minister for Finance announced in his budget statement the introduction of certain targeted changes to jobseeker's allowance and supplementary welfare allowance. Specifically, he announced that the rate would be reduced to €150 per week where job offers or activation measures are refused. Sections 17 and 18 of this Bill provide for these changes.

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