PUP needs to be restored for all workers now
- Government need to support all workers through crisis
- Restrictions will disproportionately affect those working in hospitality
Following yesterday’s announcement that the entire country is to move to Level 3 of the Governments living with Covid framework, Labour Social Protection Spokesperson Sean Sherlock TD says the PUP payment needs to be restored for all workers now.
Deputy Sherlock said:
“With the whole country facing into at least three weeks of higher restrictions now is not the time to continue cutting supports to workers. Many people working in low paid jobs in the hospitality industry will be out of work on foot of yesterday’s announcement and these people will need the €350 a week to get through the winter.
“The Government need to set out a clear coherent message that they will support all workers to get through this crisis. Level 3 restrictions for the entire country will disproportionately affect people on lower incomes who work in the hospitality sector that will effectively shut as of midnight tonight, while the live events industry is still further impacted by Government decisions.”
“Government must move quickly to restore the payment to €350 to prevent workers and families falling into poverty this winter. If €350 was deemed the correct level of support a couple months ago then it is the correct level now.
“Those with the narrowest shoulders should not have to carry the broadest burden for this crisis.”