PUP cuts a 'slap in the face' for people

The government's plans to start cutting the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) need to be scrapped as they are a “slap in the face” for people who work in sectors that have not reopened yet, according to Deputy Johnny Guirke of Sinn Féin.

New figures published yesterday revealed that there are almost 2,300 Westmeath people still receiving the PUP. Deputy Guirke says that the planned cuts need to be postponed while there are sections of the economy still unable to reopen due to ongoing Covid restrictions.

“It is clear that the pandemic is not over. New figures published yesterday have revealed that 2,292 people in Westmeath are still receiving the PUP as many workers are still unable to return to work as their sectors remain closed under public health restrictions. Despite this, the government is insisting on ploughing ahead with planned cuts to the PUP on September 7.

“The cuts to the PUP and the plan to transition people from the PUP to Jobseekers must be scrapped. These cuts are punishing people who cannot return to work and will hit young workers hardest.

“For many workers, their PUP will be slashed by €50 per week. For others, their income will plummet even further if they are transitioned to the Jobseeker's rate.

“This will particularly affect workers aged 18-24, as the maximum Jobseekers they can receive is capped at €112.70 per week. As Jobseeker’s Allowance is means tested based on entire household income, young people living at home will receive even less.

“The government’s planned cuts are a slap in the face for those who are employed in sectors that have not yet been given a date for re-opening. This is about the core principle that while workers are prevented from going to work due to public health restrictions, they should continue to receive the financial supports they need.”

Deputy Guirke also criticised the government for its treatment of the entertainment sector.

“This government has badly let down the live entertainment sector, by failing to engage with the industry and be upfront about the sector’s future. While sectors remain closed, the incomes of those who worked in those sectors must be protected. Workers in this industry must not be punished because their sectors remain closed.

“Minister Humphreys and Minister Varadkar continue to be silent on this issue and are refusing to be upfront with workers about why they are insisting on continuing with these ill-timed cuts. They owe it to the many workers here in Westmeath affected to be upfront about what they are doing and why.

“I am again demanding that the government urgently cancel the cuts to the PUP that they are planning to implement from September 7. Workers in Westmeath and across Ireland must not be unfairly punished by this government while their sectors remain closed.

“Sinn Féin is committed to standing up for workers and ensuring they are treated fairly,” he said.