Fines for jobless who refuse to engage with employment services doubled to 90

In a controversial move, former Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys doubled the fine for jobseeker payment reductions due to non-engagement from €44 to €90.

The recent legislation, which many did not notice, aims to encourage job seekers to actively engage with Department of Social Protection services, amid discussions over welfare rate increases.

The decision to tighten the penalties comes during a time of near-full employment, raising debates on the fairness and effectiveness of such measures in supporting unemployed individuals.

This year alone, about 4,000 people had their jobseeker payments reduced for not engaging properly with state employment services, reflecting the impact of recent welfare policy changes.

Read at Irish Independent