Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

112. To ask the Minister for Social Protection his plans to meet with employees at a bank (details supplied); the supports his Department can offer in this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15618/17]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As with all persons who find themselves in the unfortunate position of losing their employment, any affected bank employees should contact their local Intreo centre or Social Welfare Branch Office where they will receive advice on jobseekers payments and other income supports.

Where practical, the Department can make arrangements with an employer to actually visit the business premises and talk to affected staff, in advance of any redundancy. This may help those at risk of losing their jobs to fast-track any claim for jobseekers benefit.

In the case of the bank in question, as it is not clear where the redundancies will be situated, the Department may seek to inform bank staff of the availability of an online application process for jobseekers benefit via MyWelfare.ie.

To avail of the online application process, jobseekers need to have a Public Services Card and a verified mobile phone. They are then able to register for online services with MyGOVid.ie and can apply for jobseekers payments online without having to visit an Intreo centre and make an appointment.

Once customers are in receipt of a jobseekers payment, advice and support will also be provided on job searching, as well as any relevant education and training options that may be beneficial to the customer in their endeavours to return to the workforce.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.