Interesting statistics released this week, show that over 33,000 people have closed their claim for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment in the last week, bringing the number of people who signed off it so far to 108,000. The top 3 sectors in which people returned to work were, 7700 in the Wholesale, Retail Trade &amp; Motor Repairs industry, 5,300 in Construction, 2,500 in Manufacturing and a further 2,400 employees in Accommodation and Food Service activities.In relation to Enhanced Illness Benefit that was introduced for people who have either been diagnosed with COVID-19 or who had symptoms and had to self-isolate, over 11,700 were in the Human Health &amp; Social Work sector, followed by 10,800 in the Wholesale and Retail Trade and 6,800 in Manufacturing.The COVID-19 payments have been extended until end of August and the Government has urged people to sign off when they are offered their jobs back. The easiest way to close a claim for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment is online via <a href="www.mywelfare.ie" target="_blank">www.mywelfare.ie</a> . Any worker returning to work with an enquiry about closing their claim, can contact the department’s dedicated income support helpline at 1890 800 024 (Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm).The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection are continuing to carry out checks to ensure that claims are valid.Full Details can be found below in the Official Department Release Update on payments awarded for COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment and Enhanced Illness BenefitDate: 15 June 2020The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection issued payments valued at €174.6 million to 498,700 people in respect of their application for the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP). Taking the 517,600 who were paid last week, this represents a decrease of 18,900 on the number of people paid last week. Since last week’s payment, 33,000 people have closed their claim for a Pandemic Unemployment Payment. Of these, 21,900 will be receiving their last payment tomorrow. As well as those availing of the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment, there are now over 60,600 employers who have registered with the Revenue Commissioners for the Temporary COVID-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) with at least one subsidy being paid in respect of over 532,000 people under that scheme since it began. An estimated 400,000 employees are currently being supported by the scheme having received a subsidy in their most recent pay period. The above payments are in addition to the 225,600 people who were reported on the Live Register as of the end of May. Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Regina Doherty today said:“The numbers receiving the Pandemic Unemployment Payment continue to gradually decline – with the total now dropping below the 500,000 mark. Only a few short weeks ago, there were approximately 600,000 receiving the payment so some progress has been made, but it is also clear that the return to a new normal will be gradual and incremental. That is why I extended the payment beyond its originally planned life cycle into August. My department will continue to monitor the rate of the economy’s reopening, the continuing need for income support and the developing health situation and will develop a number of options for Government to consider before the scheme’s projected end in August.” People returning to workLast week, some 33,000 people closed their claim for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment of which 27,600 reported that they were returning to work. Of those 27,600 returning to work, approx. 21,900 are receiving their last payment this week. As the Pandemic Unemployment Payment is a weekly payment paid in arrears, there can be a one week lag in how closures, due to people returning to work, are reflected in the payment data. The 21,900 individuals who closed their claim as they return to work are eligible for a final payment, as they were unemployed in the week for which this payment is due. The top three sectors in which employees are returning to work this week are Wholesale and Retail Trade, Repair of Motor Vehicles and motorcycles with 7,700 back in work, while 5,300 have returned to the Construction sector and 2,500 have returned to their jobs in Manufacturing. A further 2,400 employees are returning to Accommodation and Food Service activities. A full breakdown of the sectors is set out at Appendix 6 below. Looking at the age profile of employees returning to work this week, the largest cohort are those aged 35-44 with 7,100 returning (up from 6,200 last week). There are 5,500 employees aged 25-34 returning this week, up 500 on last week while 4,600 people under 25 are returning to their jobs this week which is up 1,000 on last week. Full details are available at Appendix 7.With the government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business now in Phase Two, the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection is instructing workers who are returning to work that they must close their claim for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP). In order to ensure that their claim is processed correctly, workers who will be returning to work must close their claim for the PUP payment on the actual date that they start back at work. Since the commencement of Phase One of the government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business, some 108,000 employees have closed their claims and returned to work. The easiest way to close a claim for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment is online via <a href="www.mywelfare.ie" target="_blank">www.mywelfare.ie</a> . Any worker returning to work with an enquiry about closing their claim, can contact the department’s dedicated income support helpline at 1890 800 024 (Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm). COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment ChecksAs is the case, for all social welfare schemes, the department conducts a series of pre and post payment checks for the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment, including:• integrity checks made against records already held by the department including Public Service Information data and cross checks with payments on other schemes. These help to verify if a person is who they claim to be and that they are entitled to claim payment• a reconciliation process between the department’s payment file and Revenue’s payment file for the COVID-19 Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme• a prior employment status check by comparing all claims for PUP against prior earnings and employment records from Revenue data• as with other welfare schemes, the department contacts recipients to ensure that they continue to satisfy the eligibility criteria of the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment• data analytics• the department’s inspection staff participating with Garda and Customs staff, in security checks on major transport routes and transport hubsTemporary COVID-19 Wage Subsidy SchemeThere are now over 60,600 employers who have registered with the Revenue Commissioners for the Temporary COVID-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS). Workers whose employers have registered them on the scheme are not eligible to receive a pandemic unemployment payment. In addition workers who were in receipt of the pandemic unemployment payment but who have now been registered by their employers on the TWSS are no longer eligible to receive a payment pandemic unemployment payment.COVID-19 Enhanced Illness Benefit PaymentThere are now 51,300 people up to age 66 who have been medically certified for receipt of the COVID-19 enhanced Illness Benefit. Approx. 7% (3,627) have been diagnosed with COVID-19 while 93% (47,673) were required to medically self-isolate.Since the beginning of June, 48 people have applied for Illness Benefit as they have been medically certified with having COVID-19 while 452 have applied because they are medically self-isolating.The sector the largest number of employees in receipt of COVID-19 Illness Benefit is the Human Health and Social Work sector (11,700), followed by Wholesale and Retail Trade (10,800) and Manufacturing (6,800). Full details are at Appendices 8, 9 and 10 below.The department wishes to thank its customers for submitting the majority of applications through our online portal <a href="www.mywelfare.ie" target="_blank">www.MyWelfare.ie</a>. This is the quickest and easiest way to submit an application and enables the department to allocate resources to contacting those who submitted invalid applications.Individuals can close their COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment online at <a href="www.mywelfare.ie" target="_blank">www.MyWelfare.ie</a>.In the interests of the public health advice and the restrictions on movements please if at all possible do not attend your local Intreo Centre as opening hours have now been restricted. Instead please apply through <a href="www.mywelfare.ie" target="_blank">www.MyWelfare.ie</a>. Further Information on statistics available;Analysis of Pandemic Unemployment Payments by CountyPandemic Unemployment Payments by SectorPandemic Unemployment Payments by Age ProfileAnalysis of People who Closed their PUP Claim to Return to WorkAnalysis of Closed Pandemic Unemployment Payments by SectorAnalysis of Closed Pandemic Unemployment Payments Age ProfileEnhanced Illness Benefit Payments by CountyEnhanced Illness Benefit Payments by SectorEnhanced Illness Benefit Payments Age Profile See the details <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/eed4f-update-on-payments-awarded-for-covid-19-pandemic-unemployment-payment-and-enhanced-illness-benefit/" target="_blank">HERE</a>

Over 100,000 sign off the Pandemic Unemployment Payment

The world has changed in ways we could never have imagined. But despite everything, one thing that hasn’t changed is our commitment and passion to supporting our customers and jobseekers. Throughout lockdown we worked hard to support businesses that were still open and hiring, and we paused Ads for those that were closed. We also issued free Ads, so that these business can continue recruiting when it’s safe for them to reopen. We ran free Ads for the &quot;Be on Call for Ireland&quot; campaign for frontline workers and provided support and information for workers and employers that were negatively impacted during lockdown.Moving forward, we will be there for you all the way, enabling you to quickly and cost effectively fill your vacancies using the very latest technologies.If you need staff please let us know, we would be delighted to help you. If you are a jobseeker, register on our website to receive &#x27;JobAlerts&#x27;, we&#x27;ll help you to find your ideal job.About JobAlert.ieAt JobAlert.ie we use the very latest technologies to reach jobseekers directly through social media. This allows you to engage with both active and passive highly qualified jobseekers in an easy, accessible and affordable way. By passive we mean those potential candidates who may not be actively looking for a new job, but if they see an opportunity in their social media newsfeeds they will apply. This can make a massive difference, particularly for those hard to fill vacancies.We have over 400,000 followers on social media, segmented by county and we also have over half a million website visitors each month. Thousands of jobseekers have signed up to our ‘JobAlert’ on line system, where they are notified about roles that meet their selected criteria.We ensure that businesses of all sizes can attract the best talent. All you have to do is upload the details of your vacancy to our website and our system does the rest. What you can you expect when you advertise with JobAlert.ie- Your job spec is reviewed and we’ll make some suggested changes based on our experience, if you like.- An eye catching unique graphic is automatically produced for use on social media.- Each Job Ad stays live on our website for 30 days.- A digital marketing campaign begins for each Job Ad, as it is shared to relevant audiences on social media during peak traffic hours to ensure maximum exposure. - Ads are automatically monitored and pushed on social media multiple times if additional CVs are required.  - ‘JobAlert’ notifications are sent to candidates who have registered for your specific job type.- You can review, manage and respond quickly to candidates by logging into your JobAlert.ie account and using our inbuilt applicant tracking system.- You will be assigned a dedicated Account Manager who is highly specialised in recruitment and digital marketing.- You will successfully fill your vacancies!There are no hidden fees or yearly contracts, Job Ads are just €149 + Vat and for clients that advertise regularly we also have scaled rates available.We pride ourselves on our follow up service, but don’t just take our word for it, you can read some recent testimonials on our website <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/employers?openTestimonies=true&amp;utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=news&amp;utm_campaign=Ad%20Costs#testimonies" target="_blank">here</a>, they sell our service much better than we can.If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to check out www.jobalert.ie or give us a call on 01 8495003.

Covid-19 How we Responded

The Revenue has confirmed that, following an announcement by the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe TD, it is implementing a change to the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) to accommodate employees returning to work following maternity or adoptive leave.The current legislative rules provide for a subsidy payment based on each employee’s normal net weekly pay for January and February 2020. This means that employees returning to work following maternity or adoptive leave are not eligible for a TWSS payment, where they were not on the payroll on 29 February 2020, or where the employer was not paying wages to the employee who was on such leave in either January or February.Revenue confirmed that the necessary processes to enable employers to receive appropriate subsidy payments in respect of affected employees are expected to be operational from 12 June 2020.Retrospection will apply from 26 March for employees who were retained on payroll by their employers, which will be implemented as quickly as possible by Revenue. For employees who were ceased from payroll and in receipt of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP), no retrospection will apply as the individual was already in receipt of income support payments. However, employers may rehire these employees and the TWSS will be applied for these cases once their PUP claim has been ceased with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP).Further guidance and information for employers on today’s announcement and how the changes will operate will be available next week on the Revenue.ie websiteRevenue also published updated statistics based on the operation of the TWSS to 28 May 2020. These statistics are published weekly on Revenue’s website. Key information reflected in the latest statistics include:<ul><li>Over 50,500 employers have already been reimbursed for subsidy payments made under TWSS.</li><li>Over 495,100 employees have received at least one subsidy payment since the start of the scheme.</li><li>Over 250,600 employees received a subsidy in the last week.</li><li>Around 410,000* employees are currently being supported by the scheme having received a subsidy in their most recent pay period.</li><li>Over 40,000 people have moved from the COVID Pandemic Unemployment Payment into the TWSS since these Government support measures were implemented at the end of March.</li><li>The value of payments made under the scheme is almost €1,244 million.</li><li>This includes €112 million in tax and/or USC refunds made by employers to their employees through the payroll.</li></ul>* This number will increase as end of month payslips are received for monthly-paid employees.

Temp Wage Subsidy will be paid to people on maternity and adoptive leave

The COVID-19 situation has been a wake up call. Many of us have been riding a momentum wave for so long that we never had a chance to stop, take a step back, and ask ourselves - what do I really want to do with my life?These strange times are an opportunity to reassess and decide if you want to keep going on the same path as before, or do you want to embark on an entirely new journey. We can&#x27;t tell you what you should do, but we can offer you guidance if you’re thinking about making a career change. <h2>1. Start with why</h2>If you&#x27;ve outgrown or have begun hating your job or the industry you’ve worked in, ask yourself why - why do you dislike it so much? Without asking yourself this question you risk ending up in a different career, that you end up hating again. Be clear on your why - Ask yourself:• Why do I want to do this?• Why do I think a new career will improve my life?• Do I just need to find a new job?If you’re still working, keep a daily journal to help you pinpoint exactly what it is you dislike about your job. Note down all the issues - is it the actual work itself, the people you work with, company culture or the industry?<img src="https://jobalert-blog-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/image/222212.jpg11.jpg" alt="222212 Jpg 11 Jpg" style="max-width:calc(100% - 1.6rem);margin:1.6rem 0.8rem 2.4rem"/><h2>2. What do you want to do?</h2>Identifying what your passion and purpose is in life can lead to some groundbreaking discoveries on where to take your career. Learning what you enjoy outside of work is a great starting point as you can turn your passion into a new career. To help you get started have a <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-find-your-passion-and-build-a-career-around-it" target="_blank">read of our guide on how to find your passion and build a career around it.  </a><h2>3. Research</h2>Before making any drastic decisions like packing in your job, do some research to discover if the new role you have in mind is a good fit. Talk to people in the job or industry you’re considering moving to. LinkedIn is a great place to start - connect with professionals working in the space and see what trends you can spot from their feedback. Talking to people who have been there and worn the t-shirt will allow you to make more informed decisions which will greatly minimise the risk of choosing a job that won’t work for you. Test the waters Try out different career options to see what job is right for you. The important thing here is to get ideas for what you like and dislike. This process of dipping your toes in many different career paths allows you to cross off potential possibilities so they don’t remain unknowns in your mind.This exercise can be performed whether you’re in a job or not. So if you’re currently employed it reduces any risk while testing ideas to help discover what you really want to do.Some ideas to get started:• Enroll in a course• If you have a friend, family member, or connection in an interesting role - see can you shadow them for a day and get a taste for the job• See can you work as a freelancer for the role you have in mind• Seek volunteer work that is closely related to the job or industry you want to move toIf you need inspiration on this process of discovery, have a read of <a href="https://www.careershifters.org/expert-advice/how-to-change-career-when-you-have-no-idea-what-youre-doing" target="_blank">Richard Alderson’s story</a> on how he made the move from a role he hated to finding the job he loved. <h2>4. Setting up a plan of action</h2>Start thinking about your end goal and an ideal timeline.Once you have a date, break it down into the major milestones you will need to accomplish which will include:• The skills you need to acquire• The people you need to network with• What you need to take care of in your current job• Personal matters which include finances (More info on this to follow below)Once you have the major steps outlined, break them down into daily and weekly actions so you know exactly what to do to reach each milestone. The smallest steps you take will build momentum, give you confidence and help you realise that this new career is very possible. Track: Ensure that you track your efforts when you begin implementing your plan of action. A simple Excel sheet or Google sheet will allow you to set reminders and follow up actions you need to complete.  An important point to consider when taking action: Can you build your chosen career on the side while continuing to work your current job? Test it out and see how it goes. Set aside 30 - 60 minutes a day to get the ball rolling. The likelihood is that you may need to stick with your current job or at least pick up a part-time job until you&#x27;ve acquired the right skills or qualifications to make a career move. Patience is key here so take your time, build everything slowly and stick to your plan relentlessly. Financial considerationsFind out how much money you need to earn to live on.Start doing an audit of what you currently spend in a single month and see what cutbacks you can make to begin saving money. It’s a very interesting exercise to actually see the amount of money you need each month to make ends meet. You will be surprised when you strip away all of the non-essential items. Here’s why this figure will help with your plan:<ul><li>If you want to quit your job or you’re unemployed right now, perhaps a part-time job will cover your monthly expenses while you begin building your passion into a career or while you’re spending time upskilling.</li></ul><ul><li>If you have any savings this monthly figure will help you plan ahead and see how many weeks/months you could spend working on your new career while not having any income, if you do decide to quit your job.</li></ul>Salary considerations If you want to move to a completely new field you may have to take an entry-level position. To find out how much you could be potentially earning from the get-go: • Search for related job vacancies online and see what salary ranges are commonly listed• <a href="https://www.payscale.com/" target="_blank">Payscale.com</a> may also help you find the average salary• Network on LinkedIn and talk to people in the spaceSelf-employed routeIf you plan on going out on your own there is a safety net available. If you’re not earning any income the Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed) is available to keep you afloat until you begin making money. More information on the <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/unemployed_people/jobseekers_benefit_self_employed.html" target="_blank">Self-Employed Jobseeker’s Benefit here.</a><h2>5. Tips for applying for jobs in your ‘dream’ field</h2>There are a number of strategies you can use to apply for roles where you don’t have traditional experience. The focus should be on your transferable skills - skills that can be transferred from one job to another. These are skills you’ve already obtained - examples include communication, leadership, organisation - and these skills can be applicable to your new career. If you feel you need to bump up your transferable skills in order to land your preferred job, you could consider looking at internship programmes or perhaps a volunteering role may tie into the new industry you seek to move into. See if there are any opportunities to volunteer in your local area. Also If you’re returning to the workforce, listing volunteer experience on your CV shows the employer you were actively developing new skills during your time off.Include any transferable skills in your CV when describing volunteer experience. For example:Volunteering at the local homeless shelter, serving food and preparing clean bedding for 40 people. Helped organise a marketing campaign on social media to promote awareness, allowing me to develop my digital marketing skills.  The transferable skills that stand out here are organisation, communication, while the hard skills listed are digital marketing and social media marketing. Transferable skills - Hobbies and interests We recommend including hobbies and interest in your CV because it’s yet another opportunity to show off those fantastic transferable skills of yours. ‘Playing chess’ Can become ‘I enjoy playing chess, and I contribute tutorial videos regularly to an online community chess club.’Help with your CV, Cover Letter, and advice on transferable skills Finally, if you need any help putting together your CV and Cover Letter have a look at our <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/how-to-write-a-cv-step-by-step-guide-template" target="_blank">step-by-step guide here</a> which includes free templates to download with guidelines from start to finish.If there was ever a time to make a career change or to plan one out, it would be now. We wish you the very best of luck on your journey.

How to make a career change

Businesses re-opening face a lot of new changes &amp; restrictions. If you see mistakes talk to a Manager.Please don’t take videos or photos to shame on social media.Let’s help each other through this transition. Best of Luck to all the businesses &amp; thank you from the JobAlert.ie Team

Please be kind and shop local

Resources<h2>Section 1: </h2>Free CV Template to download and editOption A - Microsoft Word Version:Free CV Template to edit - Microsoft Word Version - <a href="https://job-alert.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/public/content/CV-Template-JobAlert.ie.doc" target="_blank">Click here to download.</a>If you&#x27;re on your mobile device you will need to have Microsoft word on your phone - it&#x27;s free to download on the App or Google Play store. To edit the CV Template you will need a Microsoft account. Option B - Google Doc Version:If you don&#x27;t have Microsoft Word on your machine you can edit the CV template on Google Docs - but you will need a Gmail account to access and edit. Once you are signed in to your Gmail account - <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19iL36eFvhesspUyJyxDk9txjTjuKjhiD/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click here</a> to access the Google Doc template. *PLEASE NOTE: To edit the Google Doc template click File in the top left hand corner and then click Make a copy. You will now be able to edit the Google Doc CV Template.If you&#x27;re on your mobile device you will need to download the Google Drive App on your phone, and then click the <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/19iL36eFvhesspUyJyxDk9txjTjuKjhiD/edit" target="_blank">CV Template link.</a> Once you open the file, you will then have to download the Google Docs app (which will prompt on the screen) and now you will have the ability to edit the CV template on your phone using Google Docs. <h2>Section 2: </h2>Professional Summary ExamplesAdministrative Assistant/Bookkeeper/Clerical Officer/Receptionist: A detailed orientated and top performing administrative professional with over 4 years of experience working in diverse office environments. Proven track record in record keeping, handling appointments, taking minutes and providing support to senior management. An exceptional communicator who is known to excel in high pressured settings. Extremely competent in Microsoft Office and QuickBooks. Sales Person: A goal orientated and proactive sales professional with 5+ years’ experience working within the construction and manufacturing industries. Consistently exploring new avenues to engage customers, inspiring sales teams and leading by example. Proven track record of building a loyal customer based to achieve long term and short term organization goals along with exceeding sales targets on a consistent basis. Seeking to increase (name of the company you’re applying to) sales KPIs through proven relationship-building skills. Manager: Results orientated retail manager with over 5+ years’ experience developing and motivating high performance teams. Extremely strong communicator and problem solver with a proven track record of exceeding key objectives in high pressured working environments.Graduate: A motivated and committed business graduate from the University College Cork with a proven ability to effectively evaluate, organise and prioritise work within an overall project schedule. Able to communicate effectively with work colleagues at all levels, including key stakeholders and senior managers, with the ultimate aim of delivering quality and value for money. Looking to be part of an organisation that is passionate about its products and that offers potential for personal development and progression.More Professional Summary examples can be found <a href="https://careersidekick.com/resume-summary-examples/" target="_blank">here.</a><h2>Section 3: </h2>Core Competencies and Achievements Examples:Proactive: Learned JavaScript in my spare time through an online training course on weekends and received a CIW JavaScript Specialist Certificate. Extremely focused on continuing to upskill and increasing my market value. Customer service: Exceptional at dealing with customers and problem solving. Winner of a customer service award in the past 12 months. Reduced customer complaints overall by 30% within my first year of employment. Leader and high performer: Successfully captained my local football team to a first ever league title. I was voted player of the year for the past two seasons. Consistently got results and motivated team members to perform to the best of their ability.Excellent communicator: Managed dispute resolutions successfully for small and medium enterprises by proactively understanding and empathising with all parties to find solutions. High achiever: Completed my undergraduate studies with an average assessment result of 75%. Achieved perfect attendance during my final two years of university. Problem solver: Lead a team of 5 people at *COMPANY NAME* to successfully complete a process improvement overhaul which focused entirely on becoming a paperless business. The project objective was reached a month before deadline.Forward-thinker and innovative: Proven track record of finding new product solutions. Proactively sought new systems to improve the aftersales process at XYZ Company which resulted in a 55% increase in repeat business. Analytical: Engaged and worked with Product Specialists to gain information on the latest trends, developments, threats, opportunities relating to Fraud and anti-Fraud solutions and provide full information to customers and manage expectations.<h2>Section 4:</h2>Professional Experience Examples:February 2017 — Present: Team Leader Microsoft Ireland, Leopardstown, Dublin, D18 P521 Microsoft Corporation is an American multinational technology company. I reported directly to the Sales Operations Manager. Duties: • Worked with key stakeholders to define project requirements and deliver milestones for new service • Project planning and tracking; formed the creation of key performance indicators • Identifying cost savings via detailed analysis of current technology and requirements • Providing high level project reports to stakeholders and executive committees • Delivering objectives to strict budgets, deadlines and service level agreements October 2013 —January 2017: WaiterThe Central Café, Navan Road, DublinThe Central Café is an Italian fast food restaurant. I reported directly to the cafe owner.Duties: • Maintaining a high standard of customer service at all times • Preparing and serving of food • Taking initiative to complete additional tasks when scheduled work was completed • Resolving complaints promptly and professionally • Operated and maintaining a clean working environmentHow to get a job with no experienceLinks to free CV and Cover Letter templates included. Check out our guide <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-get-a-summer-job-with-no-experience" target="_blank">here. </a><h2>Section 5:</h2>Education - Examples of how to include project work within your CV<img src="https://jobalert-blog-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/image/Education.jpg" style="max-width:calc(100% - 1.6rem);margin:1.6rem 0.8rem 2.4rem"/><img src="https://jobalert-blog-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/image/Education%202.jpg" style="max-width:calc(100% - 1.6rem);margin:1.6rem 0.8rem 2.4rem"/><h2>Section 6:</h2> Cover Letter<a href="https://careersidekick.com/resume-summary-examples/" target="_blank"></a>How to write a cover letter - instructions and template included. Get started <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/how-to-write-a-cover-letter-instructions-and-template-included" target="_blank">here.</a>

How to write your CV and cover letter- Resources

As phase 1 of the government&#x27;s roadmap for reopening of the country begins on Monday 18th May, it&#x27;s great to see local businesses making announcements that they&#x27;re getting ready to open their doors.Please shop local where possible. Your local businesses are the backbone of your community. Even if they can&#x27;t open right now, check out their Facebook pages and Websites as they may be able to supply goods directly to you during lock down. According to the Governments plans the following changes will apply next week;<ul><li>Some retail outlets such as garden centres, hardware stores, electrical stores, homewares and repair shops will be allowed to re-open.</li><li>Outdoor workers like builders and gardeners will can return to work.</li></ul><ul><li>Certain outdoor public amenities will re-open and some outdoor sporting activities will be allowed in small groups, with a maximum of 4 people.</li></ul><ul><li>Outdoor public sports amenities such as football and rugby pitches, tennis courts and golf courses will be reopened where social distancing can be maintained.</li></ul><ul><li>Childcare centres can reopen for children of healthcare workers.</li></ul>At JobAlert.ie, it&#x27;s business as usual. A lot of businesses are still hiring - here&#x27;s just a few Vacancies that came in recently; <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5eb9709edbf355001e5acdee" target="_blank">Experienced Glaziers – Dublin</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/it-manager" target="_blank">IT Manager – Alone, Dublin 8</a> <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5e9dbc9cf71c4c001e1d59cb" target="_blank">Social Care Workers - Louth</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5e9dbce8f71c4c001e1d59cc" target="_blank">Relief Social Care Workers - Louth</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/assistant-store-manager-nuvo-recruitment" target="_blank">Assistant Store Manager - Tullamore</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/store-manager-nuvo-recruitment" target="_blank">Store Manager – Tullamore</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/relief-van-sales-driver-pat-the-baker-25" target="_blank">Van Drivers – South Donegal</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea6f91a2a8a8f001d609114" target="_blank">Accountant / Accounts Technician – Dublin 7, Youth Advocate Programmes Ireland</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea1a80d2a8a8f001d608ac5" target="_blank">Cleaning Supervisor - Portlaoise, Laois</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea1a7912a8a8f001d608ac4" target="_blank">Office Administrator - Portlaoise, Laois</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/deputy-social-care-manager-terraglen-residential-care-services--2" target="_blank">Deputy Social Care Manager – TerraGlen, Westmeath</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/social-care-leaders-terraglen-residential-care-services-ltd-2" target="_blank">Social Care Leaders – TerraGlen, Westmeath</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5e99c075d47d8a003cb9b78c" target="_blank">Quality Manager - Lobinstown, County Meath, Meade Potato</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5e982cfdd47d8a003cb9b559" target="_blank">Senior Technical Support Engineer – Cavan, Cinnte Technologies</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea047012a8a8f001d608803" target="_blank">Retail Merchandisers - Arklow and Bray, Co. Wicklow</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea046652a8a8f001d6087fe" target="_blank">Retail Merchandisers - Thurles, Co. Tipperary</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea0475a2a8a8f001d608804" target="_blank">Retail Merchandisers - South Dublin </a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea0457f2a8a8f001d6087f6" target="_blank">Retail Merchandisers - Tramore, Poleberry and Lisduggan, Co. Waterford</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea06efd2a8a8f001d608827" target="_blank">Care Workers / Healthcare Assistants - Full Training Provided - Dublin</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5eb57a12a51ae0001d69bb7a" target="_blank">Office Administrator - Ballymoun</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/corperate-security-personnel-with-our-without-experience-hca-irel" target="_blank">Corporate Security Personnel – Men &amp; Women, No Experience Required – Various Dublin Locations</a> Best of Luck everyone, to see other vacancies or to advertise your vacancies with JobAlert.ie <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> <a href="www.jobalert.ie" target="_blank"></a>If you&#x27;d like to read the full details of the Government&#x27;s roadmap, you can find it here;Government publishes roadmap to ease COVID-19 restrictions and reopen Ireland’s economy and societyPublished: 1 May 2020From: Department of the Taoiseach<ul><li>1. Phase 1 (18 May)</li><li>2. Phase 2 (8 June)</li><li>3. Phase 3 (29 June)</li><li>4. Phase 4 (20 July)</li><li>5. Phase 5 (10 August)</li></ul>The government has published a Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business to ease the COVID-19 restrictions and reopen Ireland’s economy and society in a phased manner.<a href="https://assets.gov.ie/73722/ffd17d70fbb64b498fd809dde548f411.pdf" target="_blank">You can view the roadmap here.</a>The roadmap will start from 18 May, from which point our country will reopen in a slow, phased way. The plan sets out five stages for unlocking restrictions, at three week intervals. As we ease restrictions, the rate of the virus in the community will be constantly monitored by the National Public Health Emergency Team and the government.The framework sets out how we can keep the level of transmission as low as possible while balancing continuing restrictions proportionately with the positive social and economic benefits which will be brought about by lifting restrictions.In the meantime, we are extending the distance you can leave your home, so from 5th May, it will be possible to go up to 5 kilometres for the purposes of exercise. People who are cocooning need to continue to do so, however it will be possible from the 5th May to go outside for exercise and fresh air, as with others in society, provided you keep within 5 kilometres of your home and observe social distancing at all times.There are 5 phases in the Roadmap to ease restrictions. Each phase consists of a menu of options will be considered by Government as it gradually opens up economic and social activities.Examples of the types of actions which will be considered under the various phases include:<h2>Phase 1 (18 May)</h2><ul><li>allow outdoor meetings between people from different households</li><li>open up childcare for healthcare workers</li><li>phased return of outdoor workers</li><li>open retailers which are primarily outdoor or those which were open during first level of restriction (e.g. opticians)</li><li>opening of certain outdoor public amenities</li></ul><h2></h2><h2>Phase 2 (8 June)</h2><ul><li>allow visits to households</li><li>develop plans and supports to open up business with consideration for safety of staff and customers</li><li>open small retail outlets and marts where social distancing can be observed</li><li>open public libraries</li></ul><h2></h2><h2>Phase 3 (29 June)</h2><ul><li>allow small social gatherings</li><li>opening of crèches, childminders and pre-schools for children of essential workers in phased manner</li><li>return to work for those with low levels of interaction</li><li>open non-essential retail outlets with street level entrance and exit</li><li>open playgrounds</li></ul><h2></h2><h2>Phase 4 (20 July)</h2><ul><li>opening of crèches, childminders and pre-schools for children of all other workers on a gradually increasing basis</li><li>return to work for those who cannot work from home</li><li>gradual easing of restrictions for higher risk services (e.g. Hairdressers)</li><li>opening of museums, galleries, places of worship</li></ul><h2></h2><h2>Phase 5 (10 August)</h2><ul><li>allow larger social gatherings</li><li>return to work across all sectors</li><li>on a phased basis, commencing at the beginning of the academic year 2020/2021, opening of primary and secondary schools and 3rd level institutions</li><li>further easing of restrictions on high risk retail services</li></ul>The Roadmap also sets out a framework for future decision making, which will at all times be underpinned by public health advice.The government will regularly assess the following criteria as we seek to keep the level of transmission low while gradually restarting our economy:<ul><li>the latest data regarding the progression of the disease</li><li>the capacity of the health service</li><li>the capacity of the testing and tracing system</li><li>the measures in place to protect vulnerable groups</li><li>an assessment of the impact of excess morbidity and mortality as a consequence of the restrictions</li></ul>The COVID-19 emergency has had an unprecedented impact on our economy, as well as our society. As we begin the phased reopening of our economy, businesses will require additional supports.Separately, a National Protocol to protect the health and safety of workers is being developed by Government, employers and trade unions, with the assistance of the Health and Safety Authority and the HSE.The risk of a second wave of the virus is ever present. As a country, we can only move from one phase to the next if the virus stays under control between each phase. There will be a long-term need for physical distancing, for good hand hygiene, for respiratory hygiene, regular cleaning and for people to stay at home and isolate if they are sick.However, the government is very conscious that that there are significant consequences of social distancing measures. The normal structures of daily life – work, school, sport, entertainment - have temporarily ceased to exist and even as we reopen society, we will be living our daily lives in modified ways for as long as we live with this pandemic.We recognise that as we seek to mitigate the risks of transmission of COVID-19 through social distancing restrictions, we are creating other challenges for individuals, families and communities. Some of these challenges are manageable in the very short term but as restrictions continue, the impact becomes greater for some groups.In living with restrictions, the government will take account of these balancing impacts and the particular consequences for more vulnerable groups in our society.The areas where social-distancing causes most concern include:<ul><li>non-COVID-19-related health delays</li><li>wellbeing and mental health</li><li>vulnerable groups for whom home is not a safe place</li><li>minorities and other groups disproportionately impacted by the restrictions</li><li>risk-taking behaviour and offending</li><li>crime and policing and access to justice</li></ul>Government departments and agencies have been working to modify work practices, modes of delivery to meet with these challenges and this work will have to continue. It is acknowledged that additional measures have to be taken to reach out to more vulnerable groups and those that are particular affected by the guidance on cocooning and social distancing.Some of these measures are already underway, through various cross-government efforts such as the Community Call, In This Together and Still Here initiatives and campaigns.The Roadmap also acknowledges the need to continue to work intensively on our approach to travel restrictions and controls at ports and airports and our co-operation with Northern Ireland , the UK and our EU partners.

Looking forward to Phase 1 of re-opening the Country

Thankfully some normality resumes for selected businesses next week, as phase 1 of the government&#x27;s roadmap for reopening of the country begins on the 18th May. There’s also good news for workers who unfortunately lost their jobs, as we notice that more business across the country are re-engaging with &#x27;laid off&#x27; staff or are recruiting again We have listed some of these roles below.In the meantime to confirm, next week according to the Governments plans the following changes will apply;<ul><li>Outdoor workers like builders and gardeners will can return to work.</li></ul><ul><li>Some retail outlets such as garden centres, hardware stores, electrical stores, homewares and repair shops will be allowed to re-open.</li></ul><ul><li>Certain outdoor public amenities will re-open and some outdoor sporting activities will be allowed in small groups, with a maximum of 4 people.</li></ul><ul><li>Outdoor public sports amenities such as football and rugby pitches, tennis courts and golf courses will be reopened where social distancing can be maintained.</li></ul><ul><li>Childcare centres can reopen for children of healthcare workers.</li></ul>In the meantime many businesses that can’t open due to restrictions are successfully pivoting their businesses by providing take out, deliveries and other services on line. Some are having great success in this area, there’s no doubt that going forward this will be a significant business opportunity for them that they will maintain.Here&#x27;s just a few of the employers who are recruiting to fill immediate vacancies;<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5eb9709edbf355001e5acdee" target="_blank">Experienced Glaziers – Dublin</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/it-manager" target="_blank">IT Manager – Alone, Dublin 8</a> <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5e9dbc9cf71c4c001e1d59cb" target="_blank">Social Care Workers - Louth</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5e9dbce8f71c4c001e1d59cc" target="_blank">Relief Social Care Workers - Louth</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/assistant-store-manager-nuvo-recruitment" target="_blank">Assistant Store Manager - Tullamore</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/store-manager-nuvo-recruitment" target="_blank">Store Manager – Tullamore</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/relief-van-sales-driver-pat-the-baker-25" target="_blank">Van Drivers – South Donegal</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea6f91a2a8a8f001d609114" target="_blank">Accountant / Accounts Technician – Dublin 7, Youth Advocate Programmes Ireland</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea1a80d2a8a8f001d608ac5" target="_blank">Cleaning Supervisor - Portlaoise, Laois</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea1a7912a8a8f001d608ac4" target="_blank">Office Administrator - Portlaoise, Laois</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/deputy-social-care-manager-terraglen-residential-care-services--2" target="_blank">Deputy Social Care Manager – TerraGlen, Westmeath</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/social-care-leaders-terraglen-residential-care-services-ltd-2" target="_blank">Social Care Leaders – TerraGlen, Westmeath</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5e99c075d47d8a003cb9b78c" target="_blank">Quality Manager - Lobinstown, County Meath, Meade Potato</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5e982cfdd47d8a003cb9b559" target="_blank">Senior Technical Support Engineer – Cavan, Cinnte Technologies</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea047012a8a8f001d608803" target="_blank">Retail Merchandisers - Arklow and Bray, Co. Wicklow</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea046652a8a8f001d6087fe" target="_blank">Retail Merchandisers - Thurles, Co. Tipperary</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea0475a2a8a8f001d608804" target="_blank">Retail Merchandisers - South Dublin </a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea0457f2a8a8f001d6087f6" target="_blank">Retail Merchandisers - Tramore, Poleberry and Lisduggan, Co. Waterford</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5ea06efd2a8a8f001d608827" target="_blank">Care Workers / Healthcare Assistants - Full Training Provided - Dublin</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/5eb57a12a51ae0001d69bb7a" target="_blank">Office Administrator - Ballymount</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/accounts-administrator-ballymount-based-construction-company-2" target="_blank">Accounts Administrator - Ballymount </a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/job/corperate-security-personnel-with-our-without-experience-hca-irel" target="_blank">Corporate Security Personnel – Men &amp; Women, No Experience Required – Various Dublin Locations</a> Best of Luck everyone, to see other vacancies or to advertise your vacancies with JobAlert.ie <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> <a href="www.jobalert.ie" target="_blank"></a>Read the full details of the Government&#x27;s roadmap here;Government publishes roadmap to ease COVID-19 restrictions and reopen Ireland’s economy and societyPublished: 1 May 2020From: Department of the Taoiseach<ul><li>1. Phase 1 (18 May)</li><li>2. Phase 2 (8 June)</li><li>3. Phase 3 (29 June)</li><li>4. Phase 4 (20 July)</li><li>5. Phase 5 (10 August)</li></ul>The government has published a Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business to ease the COVID-19 restrictions and reopen Ireland’s economy and society in a phased manner.<a href="https://assets.gov.ie/73722/ffd17d70fbb64b498fd809dde548f411.pdf" target="_blank">You can view the roadmap here.</a>The roadmap will start from 18 May, from which point our country will reopen in a slow, phased way. The plan sets out five stages for unlocking restrictions, at three week intervals. As we ease restrictions, the rate of the virus in the community will be constantly monitored by the National Public Health Emergency Team and the government.The framework sets out how we can keep the level of transmission as low as possible while balancing continuing restrictions proportionately with the positive social and economic benefits which will be brought about by lifting restrictions.In the meantime, we are extending the distance you can leave your home, so from 5th May, it will be possible to go up to 5 kilometres for the purposes of exercise. People who are cocooning need to continue to do so, however it will be possible from the 5th May to go outside for exercise and fresh air, as with others in society, provided you keep within 5 kilometres of your home and observe social distancing at all times.There are 5 phases in the Roadmap to ease restrictions. Each phase consists of a menu of options will be considered by Government as it gradually opens up economic and social activities.Examples of the types of actions which will be considered under the various phases include:<h2>Phase 1 (18 May)</h2><ul><li>allow outdoor meetings between people from different households</li><li>open up childcare for healthcare workers</li><li>phased return of outdoor workers</li><li>open retailers which are primarily outdoor or those which were open during first level of restriction (e.g. opticians)</li><li>opening of certain outdoor public amenities</li></ul><h2></h2><h2>Phase 2 (8 June)</h2><ul><li>allow visits to households</li><li>develop plans and supports to open up business with consideration for safety of staff and customers</li><li>open small retail outlets and marts where social distancing can be observed</li><li>open public libraries</li></ul><h2></h2><h2>Phase 3 (29 June)</h2><ul><li>allow small social gatherings</li><li>opening of crèches, childminders and pre-schools for children of essential workers in phased manner</li><li>return to work for those with low levels of interaction</li><li>open non-essential retail outlets with street level entrance and exit</li><li>open playgrounds</li></ul><h2></h2><h2>Phase 4 (20 July)</h2><ul><li>opening of crèches, childminders and pre-schools for children of all other workers on a gradually increasing basis</li><li>return to work for those who cannot work from home</li><li>gradual easing of restrictions for higher risk services (e.g. Hairdressers)</li><li>opening of museums, galleries, places of worship</li></ul><h2></h2><h2>Phase 5 (10 August)</h2><ul><li>allow larger social gatherings</li><li>return to work across all sectors</li><li>on a phased basis, commencing at the beginning of the academic year 2020/2021, opening of primary and secondary schools and 3rd level institutions</li><li>further easing of restrictions on high risk retail services</li></ul>The Roadmap also sets out a framework for future decision making, which will at all times be underpinned by public health advice.The government will regularly assess the following criteria as we seek to keep the level of transmission low while gradually restarting our economy:<ul><li>the latest data regarding the progression of the disease</li><li>the capacity of the health service</li><li>the capacity of the testing and tracing system</li><li>the measures in place to protect vulnerable groups</li><li>an assessment of the impact of excess morbidity and mortality as a consequence of the restrictions</li></ul>The COVID-19 emergency has had an unprecedented impact on our economy, as well as our society. As we begin the phased reopening of our economy, businesses will require additional supports.Separately, a National Protocol to protect the health and safety of workers is being developed by Government, employers and trade unions, with the assistance of the Health and Safety Authority and the HSE.The risk of a second wave of the virus is ever present. As a country, we can only move from one phase to the next if the virus stays under control between each phase. There will be a long-term need for physical distancing, for good hand hygiene, for respiratory hygiene, regular cleaning and for people to stay at home and isolate if they are sick.However, the government is very conscious that that there are significant consequences of social distancing measures. The normal structures of daily life – work, school, sport, entertainment - have temporarily ceased to exist and even as we reopen society, we will be living our daily lives in modified ways for as long as we live with this pandemic.We recognise that as we seek to mitigate the risks of transmission of COVID-19 through social distancing restrictions, we are creating other challenges for individuals, families and communities. Some of these challenges are manageable in the very short term but as restrictions continue, the impact becomes greater for some groups.In living with restrictions, the government will take account of these balancing impacts and the particular consequences for more vulnerable groups in our society.The areas where social-distancing causes most concern include:<ul><li>non-COVID-19-related health delays</li><li>wellbeing and mental health</li><li>vulnerable groups for whom home is not a safe place</li><li>minorities and other groups disproportionately impacted by the restrictions</li><li>risk-taking behaviour and offending</li><li>crime and policing and access to justice</li></ul>Government departments and agencies have been working to modify work practices, modes of delivery to meet with these challenges and this work will have to continue. It is acknowledged that additional measures have to be taken to reach out to more vulnerable groups and those that are particular affected by the guidance on cocooning and social distancing.Some of these measures are already underway, through various cross-government efforts such as the Community Call, In This Together and Still Here initiatives and campaigns.The Roadmap also acknowledges the need to continue to work intensively on our approach to travel restrictions and controls at ports and airports and our co-operation with Northern Ireland , the UK and our EU partners.

Employers Recruiting as Phase 1 of re-opening the Country begins May 18th

<h1></h1><h1></h1><h2>Minister McHugh Speech</h2>We are living through unprecedented times due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. A decision has been made to postpone the Leaving Certificate and to offer students a system of Calculated Grades. You can read an FAQ about the decisions taken here.We are naturally worried about the risk to our physical health and that of our loved ones. The public health measures that have been put in place in Ireland as a response to the Covid-19 pandemic, and to stop the spread of the virus, have resulted in additional challenges that may impact on our wellbeing.People have an inbuilt capacity to adapt. This is what is at the heart of resilience. There are steps that we can take to support our wellbeing during this time.Q &amp; A&#x27;s<h3>1. What has been announced and why?</h3>The 2020 Leaving Certificate written examinations previously scheduled to start on 29 July have been postponed. Students will now be offered Calculated Grades. They will also have the opportunity to sit the exams at a later stage when it is safer to do so.After detailed consideration, it is the Department’s firm assessment that running the exams poses too great a risk to students, their families and those involved in running them.The logistics of holding the exams, with all the precautions that would have to be put in place to prevent the risk of further infection, would mean that they would not be held under normal conditions.<h3></h3><h3>2. Is there going to be a Leaving Certificate 2020?</h3>Yes. All students will be given the option to receive a State Certificate of Calculated Grades in each subject. It will have the same status as Leaving Certificates awarded to students in previous years.Students will also have the opportunity to sit the conventional Leaving Certificate examination if they wish at the earliest safe and practical time.<h3></h3><h3>3. Why were the exams not moved online or changed to allow people to sit shorter papers?</h3>Many different scenarios have been considered over a number of weeks, each with their flaws and faults.There is no perfect solution to this unprecedented challenge.Online exams; shortened papers; fewer examinations – none of these options would have been as fair an assessment as the Calculated Grades model. They would also have been markedly different from previous Leaving Certificate examinations and they would not be what students had been working towards, or are familiar with.Changes like those would have called into question the validity of the state examinations this year.<h3>4. How will the system of Calculated Grades work?</h3>Calculated Grades will be generated using a systematic statistical model. It will combine estimates of a student’s expected performance with the school’s statistical profiles of achievement in a subject and level, in line with national performance standards over time.The first source of data will be provided by the subject teacher. It will then be aligned in the school, with teachers consulting on the results before the principal reviews the process applied to assure the fair treatment of students. The school then sends the data to the Department of Education and Skills.A more detailed document A Guide to Calculated Grades for Leaving Certificate students 2020 will explain further how the system will work.There will be strong oversight and control and a number of inherent quality assurance measures to ensure students receive as fair a result as possible.<h3></h3><h3>5. What information will schools be asked to provide for each student?</h3>Teachers will be asked to provide an estimated percentage mark for each student for each subject. Students will also be put in a rank order in their class.Teachers are being asked to draw on existing records and available evidence, to provide a fair, reasonable and carefully considered judgement of the most likely percentage mark that each student would have achieved if they had sat their examinations and completed coursework under normal conditions.Teachers will NOT be simply passing on results from mock examinations or other tests.Schools will then align this data before it is passed on to the Department of Education and Skills.<h3></h3><h3>6. What evidence will allow teachers use to support their judgements?</h3>Teachers will use a number of records of a student’s performance and progress; for example, classwork and homework; class assessments; examinations in school, at Christmas or summer, mock exams and also coursework.A guidance document will be available for teachers.<h3></h3><h3>7. Can I appeal the outcome?</h3>Yes. The appeal will involve checks on school-entered data, correct transfer of that data to the Department, and a review that it was correctly received and processed by the Department. If a student remains dissatisfied at the end of this process they can seek verification of the Department’s processes by independent appeal scrutineers.Under the Calculated Grades system, the percentage mark provided by the teacher cannot be reviewed.All students will retain the option to sit a Leaving Certificate examination at a later stage when it is safe and practicable to do so.<h3></h3><h3>8. Will students be able to see a record of the percentage mark that the school has given?</h3>Yes. Students will have access to the school-based data in the event that they appeal.In the detailed guidance that we are providing to schools and teachers we will be making it very clear that schools should not disclose the estimated marks or rank orders to students or to their parents/guardians.<h3></h3><h3>9. Will teachers be using Junior Cycle results?</h3>No. Junior Cycle results are not being used at an individual student level. They are only being used at a group level as part of the process of standardising across schools.<h3></h3><h3>10. What if there is a conflict of interest, e.g. a teacher who teaches a relative or a friend’s son or daughter?</h3>If a teacher has a real or perceived conflict of interest with a student in their class they must declare this to school principal.There will be additional oversight by a nominated teacher and a deputy principal in such cases.<h3>11. What actually happens in the statistical standardisation process?</h3>After the estimated percentage marks are received from all schools, the Department will analyse them and carry out a process of standardisation.We will compare the school’s profile of achievement at Leaving Certificate over the past three years to the national standards, to build up a picture of school performance. We will also review the performance of this year’s group of students against their overall performance at Junior Cycle.This then allows us to check whether the estimated percentage marks in each subject from the school are reasonable, in light of performance in that subject in recent years. Therefore, the alignment of marks upwards or downwards will be based on more than one single piece of information.<h3></h3><h3>12. How will the system ensure that student’s individual achievements are fairly rewarded?</h3>The calculated grade system depends on the differences between students being accurately reflected in the school-based data. For example, if there is a student in a class group who performs better than the other students in the class group then this difference should be reflected in the estimated percentage marks assigned by the school.However, we will also carry out other checks to identify any cases where there might be something unusual about an individual’s estimated mark. .We will follow up on these cases to check whether there is a good reason and give the school a chance to change the estimated mark if necessary.<h3></h3><h3>13. Will marks or rank order change in the standardisation process?</h3>We expect that some estimated marks may change, to at least some degree. Although some will change more than others depending on the quality of the data we receive from schools.The ranking ordering of students by the school in their class grouping will be retained in the process, so students will keep their position relative to each other.After this standardisation and all follow-on checks have been completed, the estimated mark supplied by the school is transformed into calculated mark. We then use this to generate a calculated grade.<h3></h3><h3>14. How can you ensure that this system is fair, especially with the concerns about predicted grades?</h3>The approach being adopted for the 2020 Leaving Certificate is not ‘predicted grades’.It is a statistically-based calculated grades model. It has been developed in a way that will offer a fair and safe option to all students, to receive an assessment of their post-primary education despite the prevailing health crisis.While it is true that there is no tradition of teachers assessing their students for the Leaving Certificate examination, the reality is that teachers have been applying their professional judgment to assessing students’ performance throughout their schooling, including during the two-year Senior Cycle programme.International research has shown that it is possible to build in safeguards to maximise the accuracy of teachers’ judgements regarding student achievement and to minimise any risk of bias. It is also possible to construct mechanisms for national standardisation, as is being done in a number of countries. There is also research that tells us that teachers are known to be very good at rank ordering students and at making judgements in high stakes situations.To safeguard fairness and integrity in this process at school level, teachers will receive detailed guidance which will enable them to apply their professional judgement to the available evidence of student performance.School principals will have a critical oversight role and will be required to ensure fairness amongst candidates at school level and to approve the expected performance data.<h3></h3><h3>15. What about students with reasonable accommodations? How will this be taken into account?</h3>Where any reasonable accommodation has been approved by the SEC for any student, such as a reader or scribe, schools will be asked to base their estimate of the student’s likely performance on the assumption that this accommodation would have been available.<h3></h3><h3>16. What about students who don’t attend or who are taking extra subjects outside school?</h3>While these scenarios are the exception rather than the rule every effort will be made to calculate a grade, provided there is sufficient evidence available.In the case of students taking a subject outside school, the guidance provides details of how schools should proceed if school management authorities are confident that there is sufficient evidence of the student’s achievement to make an objective judgement.For students in receipt of home tuition with an association to the school, the guidance will provide information for school authorities to engage with the home tutor in arriving at a decision. Whether a valid estimate of performance can be provided will depend on whether the home tutor is a registered teacher and where the school is satisfied with the evidence used to support the judgment.<h3></h3><h3>17. Can I appeal the Calculated Grades?</h3>Yes. Due to the nature of the model, the professional judgment of the teacher or the school will not form part of the appeals process.Students unhappy with the calculated grade they receive will have access to a three-stage appeals process.Stage 1: Checks will be undertaken to ensure that the process was completed correctly by the school and that the intended information was recorded correctly by the school and that the information was transferred correctly into the data collection system. There will also be a review to ensure that the review that the data was correctly received and processed in the calculated grade model.Stage 2: Students can then seek a review by Independent Appeal Scrutineers.Stage 3: Following this review, there will also be an opportunity to sit the written examinations later in the year when it is safe and practicable to do so.In addition, there will be oversight by an independent international expert unconnected with the design of the calculated grades model to provide overall validation on the model, including the operation of the appeals system.<h3></h3><h3>18. What if I apply to sit the exams, but then am unable to do so. Will I get a second chance at sitting them?</h3>Unfortunately it is intended that there will be one sitting of the 2020 Leaving Certificate Examination for the 2020 examinations.<h3></h3><h3>19. When will the grades be issued?</h3>The plan is that calculated grades will be provided to candidates as close as possible to the normal results day.<h3>20. How will the calculated grades approach work for the Leaving cert Applied (LCA)?</h3>A broadly similar process will apply as applies to the LC established for the outstanding LCA assessments. Given the modular nature of the LCA the substantial amount of assessment that has already been taken and credited to the candidate, will stand and be combined with the calculated grades for the outstanding assessments.<h3>21. Will the grades be the same as in other years?</h3>Yes. Students will receive a provisional statement of results with grades in the same format as every other year.Subsequently students will receive a formal final certificate confirming the grades.<h3></h3><h3>22. What about the CAO process – how will it be affected by this change?</h3>Students’ calculated grades will be transferred directly to the CAO, in the same way that examination results usually are. The CAO timelines will run as close as possible to normal to allow for students to take up offers and to transition to third level, further education or work etc.<h3></h3><h3>23. Does the same apply for people looking to study in the UK or Europe?</h3>The Department has been in contact with counterparts in the UK and across the EU to explain the position regarding the Leaving Certificate. Other countries are being asked for as much flexibility as possible for our students. These contacts will continue over the coming weeks. This is also a common challenge in the UK and across the EU.<h3>24. When will third level courses start?</h3>While we can’t be specific about that yet, it will be late September or early October. Third level institutions are in constant contact with the Department on a range of issues in relation to enrolments and courses for the 2020/2021 academic year.<h3></h3><h3>25. When will the results of the appeals issue? Will it be possible to start college this year using the appeal results?</h3>Work is ongoing with the higher education sector to integrate the timing of the first stage of the appeals process with the start date for college entry.Students who receive an upgraded CAO place following Stage 1 of the appeals process may be able to take up their place in the 2020/2021 academic year.Students who are successful at the Independent Appeal Scrutineer stage, and who receive an improved CAO offer at that stage, will receive a deferred offer to start their course in the 2021/22 academic year.Students who opt to sit the Leaving Certificate examinations later in the year and who receive an improved CAO offer on foot of these results will also receive a deferred college offer to start their course in the 2021/22 academic year. If a candidate who has started first year of a course becomes entitled to a higher CAO offer and chooses to accept same in the following academic year, attendance for the first year on the new course would remain eligible for free fees and SUSI funding as appropriate.<h3></h3><h3>26. Can I mix my 2020 exam grades and Calculated Grades in different subjects to get points for access to higher education?</h3>Yes. In these exceptional circumstances, all of the results issued on foot of the examinations this year, calculated grades; appeals and the later written examination will be considered the results of the 2020 Leaving Certificate.<h3></h3><h3>27. What are the detailed arrangements for the Leaving Certificate exams to be held later this year?</h3>The SEC will set about putting the detailed arrangements for these examinations in place, guided of course by health advice.<h3></h3><h3>28. What about the Leaving Certificate fee?</h3>Where students opt to sit the conventional Leaving Certificate examination later in the year the examination fee will be waived. Anyone who has paid already will be refunded.The links below can take you to specific information about the Leaving Certificate and wellbeing resources and supports that are available to support you at this time.  For information about the Leaving Certificate 2020 and clarity on the decisions made about the 2020 examinations see: <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2f07eb-leaving-cert-2020-information/" target="_blank">https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2f07eb-leaving-cert-2020-information/</a>  For steps that you can take to support your wellbeing during this time see: <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/256911-leaving-cert-2020-practical-supports/" target="_blank">https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/256911-leaving-cert-2020-practical-supports/</a>To see the Announcement Live; <a href="https://youtu.be/grmRsOpwQO4" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/grmRsOpwQO4</a> <h1></h1><h1></h1><h1>Well Done to all the students for all the work you have done, we wish you well with your results and studies and careers ahead. </h1><h1></h1><h1></h1>

Leaving Cert replaced with predictive grading & option to sit exams later

The Teachers’ unions have voiced concerns with Department of Education officials about the health implications for members if the Leaving Cert goes ahead later this summer.Among the concerns relate to the safety thresholds for numbers that will be allowed in classrooms and exam halls, according to sources.The executive committees of the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI) and the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) both met on Wednesday night to discuss these issues and what role their members may play in grading Leaving Cert students if the exams are cancelled.It followed a meeting attended by Minister for Education Joe McHugh on Wednesday, during which a number of alternatives to the written exams were discussed, including predicted or expected grades. This is an option that is being implemented by other countries across the World in light of the current health risks.<h4>Viable alternative</h4>Well-placed sources said at last night’s meetings there was a recognition among Teachers that an urgent alternative to the Leaving Cert is required and members need to be seen to support students.The views of both unions will be crucial is determining what viable alternative assessment options can be put forward.The development comes as a new survey shows an overwhelming majority of Leaving Cert students want the exams to be cancelled and replaced with estimated grades. Also, over 26,000 people have voted for the Cancellation of the Leaving Cert 2020 and in its place a system whereby college will look at past results from 5th and 6th year, obtain references from teachers detailing the results that they feel the student would have been capable of receiving. Finally an interview process conducted by the relevant faculties depending on the students chosen course.To Sign the Petition click <a href="https://www.change.org/p/department-of-education-and-skills-covid-19-change-to-the-2020-leaving-cert" target="_blank">here </a>In the Dail Debates today;Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said that if the Leaving Cert exams are cancelled &quot;we have to make sure that we put in place an alternative&quot;.Speaking in the Dáil, he said is was &quot;extremely difficult&quot; to come up with an alternative that would be fair.He said this was &quot;the kind of work that is being done now at the moment involving the unions [and other parties] and that is going to be difficult&quot;.He has said the issue of the Leaving Cert is one that the Government wants to bring to a conclusion this week.He said that while it was possible to hold the exam within public health guidelines, it would not be the Leaving Cert &quot;as we know it&quot;. Responding to questions from Solidarity/People Before Profit&#x27;s Mick Barry, he said he totally appreciated that the uncertainty was causing enormous stress.Mr Barry said that in 20 years as a public representative he had never before seen a Government decision cause so much mental anguish to young people.He said a survey of students found four out of five did not want the exams to go ahead.He told the Dáil they felt they were being forced to do exams against their will.He said he had held an online meeting last night with 2,500 Leaving Cert students and he asked for a committment to cancelling the exams.It comes as discussions on reaching a definitive decision as to whether or not to hold exams for this year&#x27;s Leaving Certificate students continue today after teacher representatives were briefed at trade union meetings last night.ASTI and TUI executive committee members discussed other mechanisms for measuring student attainment, such as predicted grading and school profiling.Union reps were briefed on grave problems that the State Examinations Commission has identified with holding the exams, including the difficulty of maintaining social distance between students.Teachers discussed the feasibility of using existing data, such as school track records to arrive at alternative ways of assessing students.They also discussed the feasibility of awarding predicted grades.Discussions between the Department and education partners will continue.Ultimately though this is a decision for government and a decision is expected soon.Minister for Education Joe McHugh and officials from his department met student, teacher, parent and other education representatives yesterday.It is understood discussion at the meeting centred on a range of options, including holding the exams starting on 29 July, which is the current plan.The meeting also discussed other models of assessment, including predicted grades.In a statement issued after the meeting, Mr McHugh thanked participants &quot;for their ongoing engagement and support&quot;.He said the discussions would &quot;assist in making decisions regarding arrangements for the Leaving Certificate that have students&#x27; best interests at heart and that are guided at all times by the public health advice&quot;.

Teachers concerned about health implications if Leaving Cert goes ahead

Google have started using government data and other sources to review whether or not businesses should be marked in searches as OPEN or TEMPORARILY CLOSED in Google Maps &amp; Search results during COVID Lockdown.Many businesses depend on Google Maps and Search to drive customers to their locations, but during the coronavirus outbreak many businesses have obviously had to shut down temporarily, so this is why Google Maps is adding a “temporarily closed” option However, in some cases businesses may have been marked as temporarily closed even though they may still be open, even if it&#x27;s just for online, collections or deliveries. We would advise to check the status of your business by searching on Google and checking the results to be on the safe side.If they are incorrect you can correct them.The Temporarily Closed feature may be helpful to keep customers informed during Lockdown. A new page on Google’s support forums explains how business owners can mark their location as “temporarily closed” in Maps and Search if your business is incorrectly showing as open. This wouldn’t be used by businesses running limited hours as a result of the outbreak, but rather for those that have had to shut down operations entirely in the midst of the outbreak.Google explains:<blockquote>To make your profile appear as temporarily closed on Google Maps and Search:<ol><li>On your computer, sign in to Google My Business.</li><li>In the menu on the left, click Info.</li><li>To the right, point to the section “Close this business on Google.”</li><li>Click Mark as temporarily closed.</li></ol></blockquote>The Tech giant have confirmed that this new updated feature will not harm the business ranking or visibility. They also said that for now, the most important thing to note is you can mark a business as temporarily closed without consequence and change it back as soon as you are open again.We hope this information has been useful and we look forward to working with companies like yours in the near future.

Check your Business Listing during Coronavirus

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges for businesses in Ireland and across the globe. The new circumstances have presented great difficulties for employers and employees alike. The Government is continuing to address the changing situation and to assist companies and has introduced a range of measures and supports in this regard. The link below is for an official online, downloadable Guide was compiled to provide a comprehensive resource for businesses trying to manage their way through this current situation. This Guide contains detailed information on a huge range of supports from this Department and other Government Departments and Agencies and advice on other practical steps businesses can take at this time. To ensure ease of access to this information, the Guide is divided into 5 sections and also includes an Appendix which contains a COVID-19 Business Continuity Checklist which outlines some of the key risks to businesses as well as preparatory actions that can be taken to respond. Part 1 highlights a number of practical steps that businesses can initially take such as talking to your bank and checking your insurance details. Part 2 sets out in detail the business supports that are available, ranging from loans to grants to vouchers to mentoring. These include the €450m Strategic Banking Corporation Ireland (SBCI) COVID-19 Working Capital Scheme, Enterprise Ireland supports including the €2,500 Lean Business Continuity Voucher and the €5,000 Business Financial Planning Grant as well as supports from the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) like the Trading Online Voucher and the Mentor Programme. Part 3 of the Guide outlines other Government supports that are available to businesses. Details are provided on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment, the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme and short time work supports. In addition, links are provided to other important resources like the NSAI Workplace and Retail Protection and Improvement Guides, details on commercial rates deferral and amendments to planning and development regulations to temporarily allow restaurants to operate as takeaways, etc. Part 4 provides information on the COVID-19 Rapid Response Funding Call which was developed by the Government’s research and innovation agencies to help respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. This Call is an agile and adaptive initiative to support development of innovative solutions (including STEM-based, social/behavioural science) that can have rapid demonstrable impact on the current COVID-19 crisis in Ireland. As the COVID-19 situation changes, Government supports also change to address new difficulties and provide solutions and guidance. Part 5 of the Guide highlights those websites where up-to-date official information is available. Download the Guide <a href="https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Publication-files/Supports-for-businesses-impacted-by-COVID-19.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>

Coronavirus COVID-19 Business Supports

eBay is offering Irish SMEs the chance to sell their products on its platform for free. Small and medium-sized businesses can avail of the offer for a minimum of three months, whether they currently have an online presence or not.EBay said the programme will help any local Irish business that wants to quick start or increase its online selling capabilities, but do not have the resources, budget or knowhow to do so.The new programme is called the &quot;Up and Running&quot; initiative and more information can be found on eBay Ireland&#x27;s website. &quot;This is a difficult time for businesses of all sizes, but I hope that the launch of Up &amp; Running initiative will help alleviate some of the challenges that Irish SMEs are facing, and help them to stay open for business,&quot; said Hazel Mitchell, site lead for eBay Ireland. Ms Mitchell said the initiative is not just a way to help businesses to stay afloat, it is also an opportunity for them to grow and reach new markets. &quot;The Covid-19 restrictions have shrunk our physical world but there is still huge potential in ecommerce,&quot; she said.  &quot;We want to help businesses quickly and remove any barriers that might otherwise prevent them from transitioning to online, so we invite business owners to contact us today to see how we can help them.&quot;This is a practical solution to a critical and immediate problem,&quot; Hazel Mitchell added.The latest initiative follows a similar model to eBay.ie&#x27;s Retail Expansion Programme, which was launched in 2019 and saw more than 100 Irish SMEs join the ecommerce site and grow their business capabilities online. Source: <a href="https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0420/1132560-ebays-up-and-running-programme" target="_blank">RTÉ</a>

eBay to help small Irish businesses during Covid-19 pandemic

As the COVID-19 pandemic upends the economy, according to BusinessInsider.com some companies are actively recruiting candidates who have been displaced.This is particularly true for previously difficult to fill IT roles such as Software Engineers, Java Developers, Product Designers and Program Managers which are still in high demand by the big players. Large organisations are managing to attract candidates who would have previously preferred to work for smaller organisations and start ups, who offered them a greater degree of freedom, responsibility, experience and in some cases company equity. In a crisis however, large organisations can appear attractive to displaced candidates with the offer of job security and additional benefits.In the US and across the globe big tech companies such as Google, Facebook, Apple and Amazon are now actively whipping up top IT Talent, as they take advantage of this situation. According to BusinessInsider.com it&#x27;s not the first time this strategy was used, back in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis these companies hired aggressively, scooping up talent that had been laid off elsewhere. It&#x27;s not only tech talent that&#x27;s in high demand though, experienced people in logistics, transport, warehousing, engineering, electrical contracting and chefs to name but a few, were always in short supply.Some companies are using this down time to find key staff, offering to start the new recruits as soon as lockdown passes. They&#x27;re holding interviews by telephone and video conferencing and making quick decisions to keep candidates engaged.It&#x27;s just something to be aware of. The best advice JobAlert.ie can give small businesses during lockdown to reduce the risk of losing key staff, if they are on temporary layoff, is to STAY ENGAGED and show you care! Just checking in regularly and keeping them informed with whatever information you can offer, will make a huge difference. How you treat employees now will definitely stand to you in the long run, but all you can do is try your best in these uncertain times.We care about your business and look forward to the day when we&#x27;re all back to normal! In the meantime here&#x27;s an interesting article from Legal Island on &quot;Strategies for Coping with a Temporary Downturn in Business during COVID-19 Crisis&quot;, it covers Lay-offs, Short time arrangements and Government Supports <a href="https://www.legal-island.ie/articles/ire/features/employment-law/2020/mar/strategies-for-coping-with-a-temporary-downturn-in-business-during-covid-19-crisis/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>Here&#x27;s a another good article from Glassdoor on managing employees through layoffs, if that&#x27;s something you have to do <a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/employers/blog/managing-your-teams-through-layoffs/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> and this one&#x27;s also a good read; <a href="https://jobbatical.com/resources/how-to-manage-layoffs-humanely-and-remotely-during-covid-19" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>Remember, we&#x27;re here if you have an open vacancy now or in the future, check out JobAlert.ie. We help companies fill job vacancies quickly and cost-effectively through Ads on our website and social media channels. We don&#x27;t just leave Ads on a website, we reach candidates through targeted social media campaigns, that&#x27;s how we get the best results. Right now we have almost 400,000 followers on social media and over half a million monthly website visitors each month, so your jobs will get plenty of exposure. We’ve worked with over 800 clients right across the country - <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/employers?openTestimonies=true#testimonies" target="_blank">click here to view some recent testimonials</a> – they continue to sell our service much better than we can. At JobAlert.ie you’ll pay just €149 for a job advertisement. No contracts, no hidden fees. We also have discounts if you have multiple jobs to fill. You’re very welcome to call us on 00 353 1 8495003 if you have any questions.  To advertise right away or to learn more about our service click <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/employers" target="_blank">here.</a>COVID-19 will pass and hopefully we&#x27;ll all be back doing what we do best, take care everyone.The JobAlert.ie TeamFull original Business Insider Article available <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tech-giants-hiring-job-openings-coronavirus-apple-google-amazon-facebook-2020-4?r=US&amp;IR=T" target="_blank">HERE</a>

Companies recruiting candidates during COVID-19

The Wage Subsidy Scheme has been increased by 15 percent for low-income earners. Anyone earning up to 24,400 euro, who is being paid through the scheme, is now guaranteed at least 85 per cent of their income. For workers earning up to 31 thousand euro per year, the subsidy will now be up to 350 euro per week. Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe is encouraging employers to continue topping up wages.Source: <a href="https://www.fm104.ie/news/fm104-news/changes-made-to-pandemic-payment-scheme/" target="_blank">fm104</a>RTE Coverage;Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe has said for incomes that are less than approximately €24,400 per year, the State will increase the subsidy available to employers from 70% to 85%.For those employees with previous average net pay between €412 and €500 per week (equivalent to €24,400-€31,000), the subsidy will be up to €350 per week.The aim of the scheme is to maximise staff retention and firm viability by maintaining the link between the employer and employee.Speaking on RTÉ&#x27;s News at One, Mr Donohoe said that the State will also introduce &quot;flexibility&quot; on how the subsidy is paid.There are 42,000 employers on the scheme, Minister Donohoe said, and he highlighted that at its inception he had agreed that he would use &quot;affordable change&quot; to maximise the number of people in a job.He said in the absence of a scheme there would be over a million people on the Live Register or in receipt of other forms of income support.Mr Donohoe agreed that this increase would put additional pressure on the State&#x27;s finances but he said it would create savings in other areas.&quot;Depending on the number of employers or employees who avail of this scheme it could increase the cost of the operation by €100-€140 million but on the other hand the saving we would get is potentially reducing the number of people who are accessing the Pandemic Unemployment Payment.&quot; Business group, Ibec, has welcomed today&#x27;s announcement. Ibec CEO Danny McCoy said the scheme offers a strong solution for business and workforce continuity.&quot;It will continue to play a vital role in enabling the economy to bounce back at the other end of this crisis, helping vulnerable firms to stay afloat and keeping their employees engaged whilst protecting the incomes of individuals.&quot;He called for all stakeholders to help make the scheme work &quot;including those employers acting in good faith and doing their best to support employees and preserve their business for the recovery.&quot;The Irish Congress of Trade Unions said the changes will end weeks of uncertainty for low-paid and middle-income earners.General Secretary, Patricia King said, &quot;It is understandable having regard to the context in which enabling legislation was drafted that anomalies would arise. I hope that today&#x27;s announcement will spur a further growth in the uptake of the scheme and look forward to working with the relevant parties in ironing out any further irregularities.&quot;

Covid wage subsidy increased to 85% of wages for lower paid

<h2>Alot of people are feeling worried, vulnerable and anxious at this difficult time and isolation can further exacerbate symptoms. You’re not alone though, If you’re concerned about your own mental health or the mental health of someone you care about, help is available. </h2>For example here’s a list of supports; <h2>Turn2Me</h2>A free online counselling service and online support groups for people over 18. One to One on-line sessions can cost up to €35 - €50. If you are resident in Ireland, your sessions may be FREE as the HSE provides some funding for free sessions. Click <a href="https://www.turn2me.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a> for more information.<h2>AA Meetings On Line</h2>Alcoholics Anonymous are scheduling on-line meetings for people who have a desire to stop drinking but need peer support. Find out more and register<a href="https://www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie/aa-meetings/online-meetings.1607346.html" target="_blank"> HERE</a><h2>MyMind</h2>This is another online counselling service and at the moment they have discounted rates of €20 available Mon - Fri, 9am – 5pm. Visit <a href="www.mymind.org" target="_blank">HERE</a> or email hq@mymind.org <h2>Jigsaw</h2>Provides mental health information and a Q&amp;A service for young people aged between 12 – 25 years of age, their parents and guardians, and those who work with young people. Jigsaw also offer an online group chat service. Visit <a href="www.jigsawonline.ie" target="_blank">www.jigsawonline.ie</a> <h2>Shine</h2>Shine are currently providing remote support and an outreach service to people experiencing mental health problems and their families and supporters by phone and email.Visit <a href="www.shine.ie/covid-19" target="_blank">HERE</a> or email phil@shine.ie <h2>Suicide or Survive (SOS)</h2>A series of free online wellness workshops and programmes are available from SOS. The workshops are built from listening to other people’s experiences and what has helped them when their mental health has taken a dip. Visit <a href="www.suicideorsurvive.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a> for more information <h2>Stress Control Online Programme</h2>HSE Health and Wellbeing are offering a free Stress Control programme online via Stresscontrol.org which started from the 13th April. Stress Control is an evidence-based programme that teaches you practical skills to deal with stress. The six 90 minutes sessions will cover;<ul><li>What is stress? </li><li>Controlling your body</li><li>Controlling your thoughts</li><li>Controlling your actions</li><li>Controlling panicky feelings and getting a good night’s sleep</li><li>Boosting your wellbeing tying it all together controlling your future </li></ul>Click <a href="https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/about-us/free-online-stress-control-classes.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> for more information <h2></h2><h2>Samaritans</h2>The Samaritans as always are offering emotional support to anyone in distress or struggling to cope. They have a Freephone Number; 116 123 (call any time, day or night) or email jo@samaritans.ie <h2>Pieta House</h2>Pieta House provides telephone and text-based support counselling for people who are suicidal or engaging in self-harm. They are supporting people and communities in crisis - now more than ever. They offer free therapy. Freephone 1800 247 247 (any time, day or night), Text HELP to 51444 (standard message rates apply) <h2>Childline (ISPCC)</h2>Childline is open every day and is for all children and young people up to the age of 18 in Ireland. Children can talk with Childline in confidence, about anything that might be on their mind. They&#x27;re there to listen and help children to figure out the best solution for them. They can be contacted for free at any time of the day or night by calling 1800 66 66 66. Children can also chat with them live on their website, or, if they prefer to text, they can contact Childline by sending a text to 50101 or CLICK <a href="www.childline.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a>  <h2>BeLonG To Text Support</h2>BeLonG To provides support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI+) young people in Ireland. Text LGBTI+ to 086 1800 280 to chat in confidence with a trained crisis volunteer (anytime day or night, standard SMS rates may apply). While face to face services are closed, information, referral and advice will be provided digitally, by email, SMS, phone call or video conference. Visit <a href="www.belongto.org" target="_blank">HERE</a> <h2>Aware Support Line</h2>Aware provide information and support to anyone over 18 about issues relating to their own mood or the mood of a friend or family member who experiences depression or bipolar. Freephone Support Line 1800 80 48 48 (from 10am to 10pm every day)A confidential messaging support service is available by texting TALK to 086 1800 280 (any time day or night, standard SMS rates may apply). <h2>LGBT Ireland</h2>LGBT offer online support and through the helpline for LGBT+ people across Ireland. Telephone 1890 929 539 (open every day). For the Gender Identity Family Support Line telephone 01 907 3707. You can also email info@lgbt.ie for support or information while face to face services are closed and an instant messaging service is available 7 days a week, from 6:30pm to 10pm Mon – Thur, from 4pm to 10pm Fridays, and from 4pm to 6pm on Sat &amp; Sun. Visit <a href="https://lgbt.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a> <h2>Mental Health Ireland </h2>Information and support for people who experience mental health difficulties is available on Information line (01) 284 1166 (from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday) Visit the website <a href="www.mentalhealthireland.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a> or email info@mentalhealthireland.ie for more information <h2>HSE Mental Health Recovery Colleges</h2>Recovery education colleges and services across the country are using various platforms to provide mental health recovery education. Timetables have been developed to support people through recovery education. To visit their Website <a href="https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/4/mental-health-services/advancingrecoveryireland/recoverycolleges/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> <h2>GROW Mental Health Recovery</h2>Grow are providing a new six-week guide on coping with COVID19, consisting of podcasts, practical resources and information. Visit www.grow.ie or email info@grow.ie for more information. They also have an Information Line on 1890 474 474 <h2>ADHD Ireland</h2>ADHD Ireland provided support, information and resources for young people and adults with ADHD and their carers and families. Telephone 01 874 8349 (from 9am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday). Visit <a href="www.adhdireland.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a> or email info@adhdireland.ie for more information. <h2>Exchange House Ireland National Traveller Mental Health Service</h2>Telephone and online services and supports are available while face to face and group services have stopped, Call 01 8721094 (then press 1) for support, help or advice (from 9am to 5pm every day). Visit <a href="www.exchangehouse.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a> for more information <h2>Bodywhys </h2>BodywhysConnect online support groups for adults (19+) with eating disorders are operating as normal at the moment. YouthConnect online support groups for young people aged 13-18 are also operating as normal. Helpline 01 2107906 (Monday, Wednesday and Sunday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm and Saturday from 10.30am to 12.30pm). Visit their website <a href="www.bodywhys.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a> or email alex@bodywhys.ie for more information <h2>Union of Students in Ireland </h2>Union of Students in Ireland have some useful tips and resources which can be used to keep your mind healthy - Visit <a href="www.usi.ie" target="_blank">www.usi.ie</a> for more information <h2>Practitioner Health</h2>Confidential support and help for doctors, dentists and pharmacists is available by calling 01 2970396, emailing confidential@practitionerhealth.ie or visiting their website <a href="www.practitionerhealth.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a> for more information. <h2>Supports for older people;</h2><h2>Alone</h2>Alone provide a COVID-19 support line for older people. Call 0818 222 024 (from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week) or visit <a href="www.alone.ie" target="_blank">www.alone.ie</a> <h2>The Alzheimer Society of Ireland </h2>Practical information and emotional support services are available on Freephone 1800 341 341 (Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturday from 10am to 4pm) or email helpline@alzheimer.ie. The Dementia Resource Hub provides sign-posting to web-based reliable information and on-line resources for people with dementia, families and carers. Visit <a href="www.alzheimer.ie" target="_blank">www.alzheimer.ie</a> or <a href="www.understandtogether.ie" target="_blank">www.understandtogether.ie</a> for more information.<h2>Seniorline</h2>A confidential listening service is available for older people provided by trained older volunteers. Call 1800 804 591 (lines are open every day from 10am to 10pm) or visit <a href="www.thirdageireland.ie/seniorline" target="_blank">www.thirdageireland.ie/seniorline</a> for more information.<h2>Age Friendly Ireland </h2>Age Friendly Ireland have compiled a list of all Local Authority Community Response Forums, and their contact helpline numbers - these are available to support vulnerable members of communities affected by COVID-19 restrictions. Visit Age Friendly Ireland for more information and access their daily newsletter <a href="https://agefriendlyireland.ie/news/" target="_blank">HERE</a> <h2>Mobile apps to support your mental health</h2> <h2>Mindshift (by Anxiety Canada)</h2>Mindshift CBT is a user-friendly self-help tool based on proven scientific strategies. It helps users to engage in healthy thinking, encouraging them to check in each day to track their anxiety and work with tools in the app. It&#x27;s available now on the App Store or on Google Play <h2>Clear Fear</h2>Clear Fear is an app that was developed for teenage mental health charity Stem4. It uses the evidence-based treatment CBT to focus on learning to reduce the physical responses to threat by learning to breathe, relax and be mindful as well as changing thoughts and behaviours and releasing emotions. You can personalise the app if you so wish and you will be able to track your progress and notice change. Get it in the App Store or on Google Play <h2>Headspace</h2>Headspace is a well-known mobile app that teaches meditation and easy to use mindfulness skills. Map your journey, track your progress, and reap rewards in your overall health and wellbeing. You can even ‘buddy up’ with friends and motivate each other along the way.Get it in the App Store or on Google Play <h2>More online supports</h2>The <a href="https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/" target="_blank">YourMentalHealth.ie</a> website provides information and signposting on all mental health supports and services that are available nationally &amp; locally provided by the HSE and its funded partners. You can also call the freephone YourMentalHealth Information Line to find supports and services 1800 111 888 (any time, day or night).<h2>Here&#x27;s some Tips for Managing Anxiety and Stress to Protect our Mental Health During the Pandemic</h2>It is totally appropriate to recognize the signs of anxiety in oneself at a time like this. It&#x27;s the feeling of being out of control over a situation that makes us feel so scared. But we are all, globally, in the same boat. No one is immune from this trigger. If we recognize that we are not alone and that everyone is feeling tense right now, that will go a long way towards achieving some equilibrium. So, take some deep cleansing breaths and embrace these tips for managing anxiety during the coronavirus outbreak:Get Prepared. Make a list of items to purchase this week, the things that will keep you and your family functioning during the uncertain weeks ahead. Canned foods, frozen foods and vegetables, shelf-stable milks such as almond milk or oat milk, cereals, oats, nuts, bottled water and don’t forget the comfort foods—snacks and treats. After your fridge and pantry are stocked you will feel less anxious about potentially being homebound. Planning your shop in advance will cut down on the number of times you need to visit busy Supermarkets and reduce the time spent queuing.Medication. If you are on any prescription drugs it is wise to get at least a two-month supply now - talk to your Chemist they will advise you. Don’t forget to grab some over-the-counter basics, like Paracetamol etc.Supplements. Begin boosting your immune system now by supplementing your diet with vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc. In addition, it will be wise to grab some B-complex vitamins.Pet food. If you have pets, remember to plan ahead for them as well. Stock up on food and treats for a two-month period. Knowing your pet will be well fed will reduce stress.Entertainment Plans. If it happens that we are to remain in our homes for a prolonged period of a few weeks, why not get a couple of new board games or books. Make a list of all the shows on Netflix you have been wanting to see but never had the time. Unleash your creative juices and make jewellery, draw, paint, or make crafts—at least that will feel productive. Avoid News Binging. While in fear mode it is completely natural to want to know the updates on the virus. However, watching wall-to-wall news will likely increase feelings of distress and anxiety. Seeing newscasts about the number of cases in not only our country but across the world can become a heavy stress burden. Instead, grab an update in the morning and a wrap-up in the evening, but fill that in-between time with productive or recreational activities.Exercise. Within protocol get outdoors, take a hearty walk, a bike ride, or run. This will expose you to vitamin D through sunshine, which can help improve mood, as well as provide mental health benefits. Indoor exercise activities can be achieved through yoga or workout routines posted on YouTube. The videos offer a variety of toning, stretching and movements that can keep you in shape during a quarantine. Relaxation Techniques. Another way to increase relaxation and improve overall wellbeing is through practicing mindfulness techniques, deep-breathing exercises, or guided meditation. Mindfulness is the purposeful practice of focusing on the present moment. It helps you shift your wandering stressful thoughts back to the here and now, where you address the emotions, how you feel physically, and all sensations and accept them without judgment. Deep breathing exercises are very effective in quickly reducing stress and lowering blood pressure when fears about the coronavirus take a grip. Guided meditation apps are available for free and can transport you to a calm, peaceful place through mental imaging.Have Hope. We are facing some challenges, that is certain, but we need to trust in our own abilities to navigate trials, lean on our faith, and have hope.More information regarding Mental Health Issues can be found on the &quot;Getting through COVID-19 Together&quot; website <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/together/?referrer=/together/" target="_blank">HERE </a>For financial supports check <a href="www.gov.ie" target="_blank">HERE</a>For information on Business Supports during Covid-19 check <a href="https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/Government-supports-to-COVID-19-impacted-businesses.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> Stay Safe and please share this information.Thank you

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