Social Welfare Eligibility

Thursday, 15 January 2026

Questions (434)

William Aird

Question:

434. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will review the current treatment of part-time school bus drivers under the social welfare system; the reason drivers who are in continuous employment during the school term do not receive equivalent supports, such as the two-week break payment and the Christmas bonus; the measures being considered to ensure fair recognition of part-time school bus drivers, who provide essential services across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3135/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

Workers, including school bus drivers, who are employed in a form of employment that involves a recurring pattern of employment and unemployment reflecting the dates of the academic year, may claim income support where they are out of work and do not receive a salary or wage during holiday periods. Income support under the Jobseeker's Benefit or Jobseeker's Allowance schemes may be payable as appropriate in these cases.

People on jobseekers’ schemes, including bus drivers claiming jobseeker's during school holiday periods, are permitted to take up to two weeks' absence from the State in each calendar year and continue to have their payment paid. Applicants are required to inform their Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office in advance of their arrangements.

The Christmas Bonus is payable to long term jobseekers who are in receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance for at least 12 months and are in receipt of payment in the week in which the bonus is paid, which in 2025, was the week beginning 1st December 2025. Persons, including school bus drivers, who are employed throughout the year are not eligible for the Christmas Bonus.