Barry Heneghan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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668. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if he will investigate a case (details supplied) concerning an individual who has recently become unemployed and is experiencing ongoing issues with social welfare payments; if he will ensure that the matter is resolved; if he will provide contact details for the individual’s nearest INTREO office to facilitate a meeting with an officer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55403/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The Jobseeker's Pay-Related Benefit (JPRB) scheme was introduced at the end of March this year. This new social insurance-based income support has replaced the Jobseeker's Benefit scheme for people who have become fully unemployed since the commencement of the scheme on 31/03/2025 and who meet the statutory conditions for the scheme.

The purpose of the JPRB is to provide a financial cushion when a person loses their employment. It allows them to adjust to a period of uncertainty associated with unemployment. The scheme aims to support a person during this initial period while they seek alternative employment and adjust their outgoings.

A person must meet certain PRSI contribution requirements to qualify for the JPRB scheme, and the rate of payment is linked directly to a person's earnings, subject to maximum rates depending on prior contributions.

According to the records of my department, the person concerned applied for JPRB on 23/09/2025. The person was awarded JPRB from 29/09/2025. A letter dated 30/09/2025 issued to the person concerned confirming details of their JPRB including the weekly rates of payment for the duration of 39 weeks.

To-date, two payments issued on 03/10/2025 and 08/10/2025 to the person concerned at their nominated Post Office. The person will continue to receive their payment every Wednesday thereafter.

Should the person concerned wish to contact their local Intreo Centre in Coolock to discuss JPRB or any other issues, assistance is available by:

• emailing coolock@welfare.ie, by freephone at 0818 405060, or
• attending the Coolock Intreo Centre, Northside Civic Centre, Bunratty Road, Coolock, Dublin 17, where the team will be happy to assist and answer any questions the person may have.