Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
485. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason no dedicated streamlined process exists to manage recurring jobseeker's claims arising from seasonal closures in the early years and Montessori sector; the reason workers must apply in the same manner as new applicants each summer despite the predictable, calendar based nature of this non employment period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47194/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraEducational Sector Workers (ESWs), including Early Years Educators and those employed in the Montessori sector, who wish to avail of income support while temporarily laid-off during the school breaks may apply for a jobseeker’s payment during these lay-off periods. All qualifying conditions for a jobseekers payment must be satisfied to receive this payment, including being available for and genuinely seeking work.
Applications for a jobseeker’s payment cannot be made in advance of a person finishing employment and applications should only be made by the person on the first day of their unemployment.
My department has recently introduced improvements to the application process for Educational Sector Workers, including Early Years Educators and those employed in the Montessori sector. These enhancements include a new online application for ESWs to submit their jobseeker's claim through MyWelfare.ie, and improved claim processing.
ESWs can now self-declare the number of holiday days they will receive from their employer for the school break, directly as part of their online jobseeker’s application, without the need to have forms completed by their employer. This change allows for decisions to be made in a more efficient and timely manner.
Alternatively, if a person does not wish to apply for a jobseeker’s payment online they can complete the new ESW 1 application form. This form has also been improved to ensure claims can be dealt with as quickly as possible.
These improvements have reduced the time involved in processing of jobseeker's claims arising from school breaks for all ESWs including those of Early Years Educators and the Montessori sector.
