Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yesterday, the Minister announced changes to the temporary wage subsidy which was introduced on 26 March to provide income support to eligible employees where their employer's business activities had been negatively impacted by Covid-19. Section 28 of the relevant legislation, the Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Act 2020, makes provision for the Minister for Finance to determine the amount of the temporary wage subsidy, including in respect of those earning in excess of €586 per week. It has been acknowledged that since the scheme was developed at speed, imperfections and anomalies have arisen, including for lower paid employees.

A similar assessment now needs to be made in respect of carers' payments and entitlements, which are not captured in the recent revision of the legislation. In addition to the engagement with Family Carers Ireland, will the Minister ensure that this assessment takes place so that anomalies that are unfair and inequalities around accessing financial supports for carers are addressed? I have already written to the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection on the issue.

What financial stimulus package is the Minister for Finance planning for the economy following the Covid-19 pandemic? In particular, what supports will be introduced to help the SME and tourism sectors to reopen following the lifting of restrictions? There is considerable unease in the tourism sector, including among hoteliers. We have all received emails, and I would like to be able to revert to those people with something definitive.

The question of mortgage breaks from banks has already been mentioned. I have received a number of calls from frustrated constituents. Not only is there profiteering, but the mortgage holders are being punished simply for looking for a mortgage break. I welcome the Minister's statement that he will engage with the banks, since that is the way to proceed, but is it possible that Deputies could receive a briefing document following that meeting so that we could then inform the constituents who phone with queries and concerns of what has happened and set them straight?

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