“I am acutely aware that some sectors of the economy are re-opening slower than others."
People availing of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) won't be transitioned to a Jobseeker's payment until after Friday, 22 October.
Just over 140,000 people received the PUP this week, a fall of 3,468 on last week. A total of €41.4 million was issued in PUP weekly payments.
The greatest reduction this week was in the accommodation and food services sector.
Some people on the PUP were set to see the payment transitioned to the lower rate of a Jobseeker's payment soon, however, it has now been confirmed that the change won't take place until the final set of restrictions ease on 22 October.
Members of the entertainment industry had been calling on the government to delay the transition until after the sector reopens.
The PUP figures published this week are in addition to the 179,761 people who were on the Live Register at the end of August.
As restrictions are eased, people returning to work are advised to close their claim on their first day back at work.
Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys said on Tuesday that "this week marked another significant milestone in our country’s recovery from Covid-19."
“Employers right across the economy should be commended for putting in place the necessary measures to ensure their staff and indeed customers are protected," she added.
Humphreys said that she is "acutely aware" that some sectors of the economy are re-opening slower than others.
“That’s why as Minister, I have deferred the transition of workers from the PUP to jobseeker’s benefit until after 22 October.
“In practical terms, this will mean that any self-employed person on the €203 PUP rate will continue to be able to avail of €960 without being impacted.
“I know that this flexibility is something people in the entertainment industry have called for and I am happy as Minister to provide it.”
