There are 3,285 people in Galway receiving the Pandemic Unemployment Payment this week, according to the latest Government figures.
This is an increase of almost 500 since 21 December, when a total of 2,789 people were in receipt of the PUP.
Nationally, 67,000 will get payments paid into their post offices or bank accounts this week, at a cost of €16.66 million.
The sector with the highest number of people receiving PUP this week is Accommodation and Food Service Activities (12,717) and is followed by Wholesale and Retail Trade (10,832) and Administrative and Support Service activities (7,520).
Speaking about this week’s figures, Minister Heather Humphreys said that as the Omicron variant continues to pose significant challenges, it is vitally important that we take every necessary step to protect ourselves and our families from infection.
“My clear message to anyone who receives a positive test or is displaying symptoms is to follow public health advice and self-isolate immediately,” said Minister Humphreys.
“As a result of changes I introduced last week, the Enhanced Illness Benefit is being provided on a more flexible basis.”
She reminded people that those under the age of 40 who apply for an antigen test from the HSE can use this proof of application to apply for Enhanced Illness Benefit for the days they are out of work.
“My Department is currently receiving a large volume of applications and it is making every effort to process these as quickly as possible.
“The quickest and easiest way to apply is online through www.MyWelfare.ie.”
