PUP restoration welcome, but workers need certainty

TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has welcomed the restoration of €350 PUP rate, but said that workers need certainty and reassurances that the Government will not reinstate the cut and leave workers vulnerable to whimsical shifts in Government policy.
 
Teachta Crowe said: “The reversal in the Government’s decision to cut the €350 rate of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment is to be welcomed of course, but these cruel cuts should never have been implemented in the first place. “As a result of the latest lockdown, 100,000 workers could be out of work just as they were getting back on their feet.
 
“The cycle of lockdown to partial reopening to lockdown again means that, now more than ever, workers and families need certainty around their financial supports and their accommodation situation. A moratorium on evictions and a rent freeze would also be welcome and needs to be part of an overall package to support workers and families during these unprecedented times. 
 
“The restoration of the higher rate to €350 is further proof that the cut introduced by the government was a mistake.  While we battle against the COVID virus, supports and certainty are vital for greater stability in our citizens’ lives.
 
“The income and safety of workers and families should not rise and fall depending on the mood swing or latest whim of Government or its Ministers.”