The social welfare Christmas bonus will be paid out to claimants and pensioners from next week.
Tánaiste Joan Burton and Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin have both signed the necessary regulations required for the funds to come out of the State’s finances.
“As Tánaiste and Labour Party leader, my focus is on trying to ensure we can improve things for every person, not just a few – and the Bonus will play an important role in that,” said the Tánaiste today.
Dole claimants can expect to receive €141.00 in the coming weeks, while pensioners will receive a bonus of €173. A long-term jobseeker with a dependent partner and two dependent children will get a bonus payment of €279.30.
Burton added: “The people of this country deserve immense credit for ensuring that social solidarity remained intact throughout the crisis, when it fractured in other countries.
“That solidarity is based on a simple concept – that age-old Irish tradition of looking out for someone less fortunate than yourself.
“The bonus is not just a welcome assistance to retired people at a financially stressful time of year. It also helps a range of other vulnerable people – including lone parents, long-term jobseekers, carers and people with disabilities.
“And importantly, the bonus is spent within the local economy. So it provides a boost not only for the individuals and families who receive it, but also for local businesses and the community.”
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