Q.  I am from France and have been working in Ireland for nine months. I have just heard that I am to be laid off from my job. I would like to stay here in Ireland and look for work. However I don’t qualify for Jobseeker’s Benefit because I don’t have enough PRSI contributions and I don’t qualify for Jobseeker’s Allowance because I don’t meet the Habitual Residence Condition. Am I eligible for any income support payments while I look for a new job?

25.04.10

As an EEA migrant worker you are entitled to the same social and tax advantages as Irish citizens. (If you have moved to look for work but have not found it you do not have this entitlement.) This means that if you lose income because of unemployment or illness, you are entitled to claim a means-tested weekly Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) without having to meet the Habitual Residence Condition.

You must have been in genuine employment since coming to Ireland (casual work or work for only a few hours a week do not count). If you are out of work, you must meet other conditions, for example, being registered with FÁS as a jobseeker or taking part in vocational training. If you have been paying contributions to the Irish social insurance system you may also be entitled to claim certain Irish social welfare payments (without meeting the HR condition). These payments are classified as Family Benefits under EU Regulations and include: Child Benefit; Guardian's Payment (Non-Contributory; FIS; One Parent Family Payment.

You should contact the Community Welfare Officer in your local health centre to apply for Supplementary Welfare Allowance. Visit www.losingyourjob.ie for more information on redundancy and job loss.

Citizens Information: Buncrana 074 9363496; Carndonagh 074 9373741

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