There are 544 fewer workers in Galway receiving the Pandemic Unemployment Payment this week as the number of recipients nationally decreased by over 9,000.
More than 7,500 people closed their PUP claims in the past week to return to work, with over half of them working in the Accommodation and Food Services Sector.
A total of 473 people closed their accounts in Galway to return to work.
Despite the further reduction in numbers, there are still 212,000 people receiving the weekly payments, which this week cost €62.7 million.
Speaking about this week’s PUP numbers, Minister Heather Humphreys said that since February, over 270,000 people have closed their claims as they returned to work.
“The fall in numbers further demonstrates the progress we are making in re-opening our economy and getting businesses back open,” said Minister Humphreys.
“Over the coming weeks, we can expect the overall number of recipients to fall further, particularly as we move to re-open indoor hospitality.”
The Minister said that the Government’s approach will continue to be one that is cautious and prioritises the health of citizens.
“While we are making great progress, we must carefully monitor the trajectory of this virus in the weeks and months to come,” added Minister Humphreys.
