Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Department uses a "payment week" across its range of social welfare schemes rather than the concept of a "working week." The payment week is defined in primary legislation for each scheme. I understand the Deputy is particularly interested in the arrangements for Jobseekers schemes, which are payable from Wednesday to Tuesday in the case of Jobseeker's Allowance, and from Thursday to Wednesday for Jobseeker's Benefit.

The payment dates on social welfare schemes are long established and when originally introduced, took into account factors such as staggering attendances at Social Welfare offices and Post Offices on particular days. This minimises queuing times to prevent long delays and continues to remain a key consideration.

Any changes to these arrangements would require careful consideration.

The Department is undertaking reforms in respect of the Jobseeker's schemes including the introduction of a pay related benefit payment in the second half of 2024. The appropriate payment arrangements will be considered as part of this process.

I trust this clarifies the matter.