Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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189. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the reason inshore fishing crew members are categorised as self-employed even though they can be made redundant by the vessel owner at anytime; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29031/13]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The employment status of fishing crew members, including inshore fishing crew members, reflects the differing pay and conditions that apply, which varies throughout the fishing sector. Where a crew member is paid a set wage, even where it may be supplemented by reference to a share in the catch, the worker is generally considered to be an employee and covered for all benefits and pensions at PRSI Class A. Where a crew member is paid solely by reference to a share in the catch, they are considered to be insurable as a self-employed contributor at PRSI Class S. This entitles them to the following benefits:

Widow's and Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner (Contributory) Pension

Guardian's Payment (Contributory)

State Pension (Contributory)

Maternity Benefit

Adoptive Benefit

Bereavement Grant.

A share fisherman, or woman, who is classed as self-employed, may choose to pay an additional PRSI contribution at Class P. The rate of Class P contribution is 4% of income in the preceding contribution year, in excess of €2,500, or €200, whichever is the greater amount. This contribution is additional to the normal Class S payment made by the contributor. In order to remain a Class P contributor a person must continue to be liable for Class S PRSI and ensure that all payments due are up to date. The additional contribution entitles crew members to limited short-term benefits such as jobseekers benefit for up to 13 weeks, illness benefit for up to 52 weeks and treatment benefits. These special arrangements recognise the particular circumstances associated with working in the fishing sector in Ireland.