March 30, 2020
All workers on the island should be entitled to Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment – Pádraig Mac Lochlainn

Sinn Féin TD for Donegal Pádraig Mac Lochlainn has called on the Minister for Social Protection to ensure that all workers on the island who have paid their taxes and social insurance in the State are paid the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment.

Currently the payment is being denied to workers who are resident in the north of Ireland.

Teachta Mac Lochlainn said: 

“It is unfair and unjust that so many workers in Donegal and across the State – who have paid their taxes and social insurance like everyone else – are not able to access the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Benefit of €350 per week because they are resident in the north.

“They are being asked to apply for Universal Credit in the 6 Counties and this is causing serious economic hardship for these workers and their families.  

“My party colleagues and I raised this issue with the Minister for Social Protection and her officials over a week ago, and in recent days Mary Lou McDonald has written to Minister Regina Doherty appealing for this payment to be made available to all workers resident on the island.

“This is an exceptional and emergency payment and it should be paid to all workers on an equal basis.”

Follow us online

Latest Tweets

I welcome tonight’s statement from the Ceann Comhairle and her acceptance of the position set out by Sinn Féin and the combined Opposition - you cannot be in government and opposition at the same time.

This was a stroke too far on the back of a grubby deal and everyone knows…

One year ago today, history was made as I took up the position of First Minister.

Every day since, I’ve worked to ensure all our people are fairly represented and to meet the needs and aspirations of workers, families and communities.

I remain determined to do everything I can…

Sinn Féin National Chairperson Declan Kearney has welcomed the passing of a motion in the Assembly supporting greater north-south co-operation.

@DeclanKearneySF

👋 Meet your new Sinn Féin ministerial team.

Our strong Sinn Féin team in the Executive will work to continue leading positive change and improve the lives of workers, families and communities.

4

Load More

Statements