Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire. The PUP has been a vital support for people through the Covid pandemic. I recognise the work of staff in the Department in processing the payment, which involved a huge effort. This vital support will need to be maintained because people will continue to rely on it in the weeks and months ahead. Given that we are now approaching the end of May, it is very important to have clarity for workers and families regarding this vital source of income. The Economic and Social Research Institute, ESRI, stated yesterday that a review of the scheme should be carried out in the autumn. The plan initially was that, from April this year, people on the PUP would be moved onto a jobseeker's payment. Will the Minister indicate whether that is still the plan and give her thoughts on that possible move?

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