Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 January 2026
177. Deputy Ann Graves asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will review the eligibility criteria for jobseeker’s benefit or allowances, as they exclude many young people from welfare payments who are well deserving, as in the case of a person (details supplied). [4626/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll jobseeker's payments have certain eligibility requirements in order for a person to qualify for a payment. Scheme eligibility conditions are kept under review for all jobseekers including young people. Jobseeker's Pay Related Benefit and Jobseeker's Benefit have specific qualifying PRSI contribution conditions and Jobseeker's Allowance is a means tested payment.
In the case outlined by the Deputy the person does not meet the qualifying contribution conditions for Jobseeker's Pay-Related Benefit. The person was advised of this decision and was invited to apply for Jobseeker's Allowance. Where a person is living with a parent or step-parent in the family home, an assessment is made of the yearly value of any benefit and privilege enjoyed by that person by virtue of residing with a parent or step parent. The assessment of parental income continues to apply to persons aged under 25 who apply for Jobseeker's Allowance and who reside with a parent or step-parent. In this case the person did not satisfy the means test for a Jobseeker's Allowance payment.
If a person is not able to meet their needs, they may apply for Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA). Each SWA scheme is subject to relevant eligibility criteria based on the circumstances of each case and includes a means or income test. Further information is available at their local Intreo or Brach Office or at www.gov.ie/SWA.
I trust this clarifies the issue for the Deputy.
