Over 50,000 unemployment claims from people laid off due to virus

The Department of Social Protection has received more than 50,000 claims for unemployment payments from people who have been laid off due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The figures, announced yesterday (Wednesday) evening, underline the huge impact the Covid-19 pandemic is having on our economy and people. 

The Minister for Social Protection, Regina Doherty, acknowledged that this was an incredibly difficult time for many, particularly those who lose their jobs, even if this loss is temporary. 

She said: "The measures taken already are extraordinary but this is an extraordinary time. There is great uncertainty and much anxiety about what lies ahead.  

"The loss of a job and an income increases this anxiety and stress. We are doing all we can to help people through this anxiety."

The Government has asked employers, where possible, to continue paying laid-off staff Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payments of €203 a week, which the employer can then claim back from the State. 

"The new payment we introduced is just one measure and it means that we can get people into payment as quickly as possible," said the Minister. 

"Hopefully this will provide some measure of reassurance to people unfortunate to be laid-off. We are also calling on banks, landlords, utility providers and others to exercise forbearance with regard to payments of mortgages, rent and utility bills." 

The payment of the €203 sum by the employer is designed to help ease the current pressure on the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, and to help maintain a link between employers and workers.

Minister Doherty announced that the refund scheme for employers would be administered by the Revenue Commissioners.