Still 413,000 on Covid-19 pandemic unemployment scheme may worry new coalition

There are still almost 413,000 people on the pandemic unemployment payment more than six weeks since the start of the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, suggesting the new Government faces a big headache if it wishes to wind down the scheme at an early stage.

Pictured is Tánaiste and Minister of Business, Enterprise, and Innovation Leo Varadkar arriving at Dublin Castle today ahead of the Cabinet meeting. Picture: Leah Farrell/Rollingnews.ie

There are still almost 413,000 people on the pandemic unemployment payment (PUP) more than six weeks since the start of the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, suggesting the new Government faces a big headache if it wishes to wind down the scheme at an early stage.