O'Cuiv: Dole 'does not stop people from looking for work'

The Minister for Social Protection Eamon O'Cuiv is rejecting that the cut in dole payments is designed to get people to look for work.

The main rate of job seekers allowance is to be reduced by 4% to €188, a cut of €8 a week.

The payment for 18 to 21-year-olds will remain unchanged at €100 per week, while the rate for people aged 22 to 24 is being cut to €144 per week.

Mr O'Cuiv said he does not believe the dole stops people from seeking employment.