A new benefit will become available for those in material need as of January 2014, according to the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, and Family. The base amount of the benefit will be €60.50 per month for those eligible and willing to participate in community work. In order to receive this state funded benefit, all applicants must be adults and able to work for at least 32 hours per month.
This new benefit for those in need will not be compulsory, and will not affect existing benefits such as child support, however if an area has such community work on offer and a person does not apply for it, they will not be able to receive this contribution.
Gavin Shoebridge
