Teenagers who have previously been in receipt of jobseeker allowance are to be incentivised into education and training opportunities with the new supplementary budget according to Minister John McGuinness.
“Those 18 and 19 year olds who are in receipt of jobseekers allowance will now have that allowance reduced from €204.30 to €100 with effect from May 1. “However, if the 18 and 19 year olds opt to participate in a full-time Youthreach course for young early school leavers or full time course in a Senior Traveller Training Centre they will receive the full allowance of €204.30. Those who qualify for the Back to Education Allowance (BETA ) for pursuing a full-time second level course or Post Leaving Cert Course or participate in a full-time FAS training course will also get the full allowance.”
“When a jobseeker reaches the age of 20 they will be eligible for the full rate of allowance.”
“This measure will help to ensure that teenagers do not become welfare dependent from a young age.”
“Teenagers should be incentivised to remain in education or training as it will assist them in seeking employment and increase the likelihood of securing a good job in the future,” concluded Minister McGuinness.
