All questions arising as a consequence of COVID-19 employers are directed to the public health advice issued by the HSE. It is essential that all employers abide by this advice.
A number of income supports are available from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment
If you have lost work due to a downturn in economic activity caused by COVID-19 you can apply for the new COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment.
This new payment quickly delivers income support to the unemployed (be they self-employed or employees) for a 6-week period.
It is designed to provide income security for a period during which you can apply for a full Jobseekers payment (and received any additional entitlements backdated).
You can apply for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment by filling in a one page application and returning to us by FREEPOST. You do not need to visit an Intreo Centre to apply.
COVID-19 Enhanced Illness Benefit
If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or are medically certified to self-isolate as a result of COVID-19, you can apply for Illness Benefit for COVID-19 absences paid at a rate of €305 per week. This is available to employees and the self-employed.
A range of other supports are also available for
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workers whose employers do not supplement/top-up the State Illness Benefit payment (COVID-19)
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workers who are requested to stay at home by their employer (COVID-19)
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workers who are laid off temporarily or put on to short time working (COVID-19)
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workers who need to take time off work to care for a person affected by COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
Employment rights information is available from the Workplace Relations Commission.