Taoiseach defends decision to increase fine for people on Jobseeker’s Benefit

Taoiseach Simon Harris said it is "common sense"

The Government has come under fire after quietly signing off on a €90 fine for those who refuse to engage with social welfare employment services.

People will see €90 taken from their Jobseeker's Benefit if they're avoiding employment services.

Minister for Social Protection believes that doubling the fine is the right move.

Taoiseach Simon Harris agreed that it is "common sense" after some public backlash.

According to reports, Harris said, "people have to play ball".

He stated: "The Minister for Social Protection will take legislation to the Seanad, the Social Welfare Bill, and included in that is again a common sense measure to make sure that our social welfare system is compassionate but also that people have to play ball," the Taoiseach said.

"This idea that if you refuse to engage with our activation services in the Department of Social Protection, that that can just continue indefinitely, I don't think anyone thinks that's fair," he shared.

The original penalty for those on Jobseeker's Benefit was €44

People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy says it is a "cruel cut".

He also said the government is "following the Tory line" by doubling the fine.

"It is exactly what was implemented by the Tories in Britain.

"The impact will not be to get more people back at work," he added.

Harris added, "If you are refusing to engage at all, that has to have an impact in terms of the amount of social welfare they receive each week and Minister Humphreys will bring forward those proposals."

READ MORE: