Further to the announcement by the Taoiseach on Friday, many Chamber member companies now will be required to temporarily cease operating for the next two weeks.

In light of this announcement the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection has asked that we highlight two supports that members may wish to avail of;

1)     The first is the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme which is operated by the Revenue Commissioners .

The Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme is available to employers who keep employees on the payroll throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning employers can retain links with employees for when business picks up after the crisis. It provides a subsidy through the payroll system of 70% of an employee’s wages up to a maximum of €410 per week per employee. Further information is available at the following link. https://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/communications/covid19/temporary-covid-19-wage-subsidy-scheme.aspx

2)     Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment

Where employers cannot avail of the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme and their employees where they have been temporarily laid off can apply for the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. This payment is for €350 per week and is available to all individuals who are temporarily fully unemployed, including the self-employed.

The quickest and easiest way to apply for the Covid-19 unemployment payment is through the online portal www.MyWelfare.ie.

All that is required is for the employee to have an email address, a bank account and a PPSN. Simply go onto the Covid-19 Services section of the website and apply for the payment. They will have to set up an account but it is a simple and straight forward process.

It is essential that employees use the MyWelfare portal.

This online channel enables the Department to quickly process applications, while being convenient and easy for individuals to use.