Sherlock Urges Jobseekers To Check Out Back To Work Enterprise Scheme

CORK East Labour TD Seán Sherlock is urging those with a business idea to check out their entitlement to the Back Work Enterprise Allowance with their local social welfare office.

Deputy Sherlock said with current unemployment levels, a number of people are now considering turning to self employment and with assistance from the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance Scheme, they have an opportunity to retain their a social welfare payment while securing work through self employment.

“I think a lot of people are not aware of this scheme with just 421 people signing up to it in Cork last year. I believe there may be a lot of people who have a viable business idea but feel they cannot go anywhere with it because of the fear of having no income for a period of time while the business is getting off the ground. This scheme provides for payment of 100% of existing social welfare entitlement in the first year and 75% in the second year for those who have already established an entitlement to jobseekers allowance,” explained Deputy Sherlock.

He added that there are also technical assistance grants available up to €1000 available to assist with the cost of getting a business off the ground.

“I would encourage anyone who thinks this scheme might be for them to go and make an appointment with their local social welfare facilitator. I would also urge them to do this before their entitlement to Jobseeker’s Benefit is exhausted which will improve their chances of qualifying for the maximum payment.” he continued