The Department of Social Protection have once again confirmed that the annual social welfare Christmas bonus will be paid out to recipients this week.
It is understood the Department’s announcement comes after there was major uncertainty surrounding the payment of the bonus last following the allegations surrounding the Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald.
However in statement issued today a department spokesperson said the bonus which will cost the state an estimated €219m will be paid out this week.
It is expected those who are currently receiving social welfare payments will receive a 85% increase on top of their original payment.
The Department of Social Protection say people who receive the following payments will be entitled to the bonus.
- State pension
- Widow’s and widower’s pension
- Guardian’s payment
- Blind pension
- Invalidity pension
- Disability allowance
- Deserted wife’s benefit
- Carer’s allowance and benefit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Supplementary Welfare Allowance
- Back to Work Enterprise Allowance
- TÚS, Gateway and Job initiative
- Community Employment
- Rural Social Scheme