Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her response. I welcome her mention of a pay-related scheme. Given that people who lose their jobs might have their earnings fall to €203, it is important that there be a graduated reduction to ease the transition into unemployment status. However, it is also important to keep in mind that the maximum rate of benefit is €203. This is the most that some people can get at the moment. In today's world of rising prices and an increased cost of living, that is pretty low. Could this matter be considered?

I welcome the introduction of a pay-related scheme. We should put a floor of €203 on all payments so that people do not fall below that level. If they are part-time workers, that could be taken into account. At the same time, it is important to ensure that work pays and that people can return to work and benefit more from that. When people pay PRSI, it is important that they get a reasonable response when they are made redundant.

See this speech in context