Joy as hairdressers, hotels and B&amp;Bs and small gatherings for summer weddings are expected to get the go-ahead for the end of June. Many people will be thrilled to hear that they can finally ditch the root sprays and go on a little break away.Couples whose wedding plans were put on hold will also be relieved to know they can have a small gathering if they like, but it could be disappointing for some that may have already cancelled all their plans. Cinemas and theatres are also being reviewed and restaurants and pubs that serve food will also be back in business. Other Pubs that don&#x27;t serve food will not open until July.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 <a href="www.jobalert.ie" target="_blank">www.jobalert.ie</a> or give us a call on 01 8495003.

Hairdressers, Hotels and B&Bs set to open end of June

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 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

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

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

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

<h2>How business can help with supplies and services to respond to COVID-19</h2>Since COVID-19 arrived in Ireland, organisations have been contacting government bodies to offer to supply or donate goods and services. We are creating a central database of these offers on behalf of the whole of the public service, including the HSE.Goods and services required by the health services are currently a priority but this may change as the situation develops.This form can be used by business as well as publicly-funded and voluntary bodies, (including educational institutions) who wish to offer goods or services to assist in Ireland’s response to COVID-19.If your organisation is already supplying goods or services to the government, you do not need to do anything as normal arrangements will apply.Anything you donate or sell as part of this fight against COVID-19 will not be considered in any future government procurement.<a href="https://offersofsupport.gov.ie/offers/new" target="_blank">Submit details of your offering to the government here.</a>

Can your business help with supplies and services to respond to COVID-19?

What is the Guinness Fund?€1.5 million fund to provide support to bar staff and communities<h3>Supporting licensed venues 24/7</h3>The Guinness FundGuinness announces the establishment a €1.5 million fund to provide support to bar staff and communities during the COVID-19 crisis. With outlets temporarily closing their doors in Ireland, our aim is to reach as many affected bar staff as possible through the fund.How it worksGuinness is providing 10,000 x €/£100 pre-paid Mastercards to bar staff that need them most. The fund will be open on the MyDiageo website from 10:00am April 1st and close 10:00am April 3rd 2020. We are asking our customers to play a part in the process by applying for the cards on behalf of their bar staff.More informationThere will be high demand for the cards and we only have a limited amount to share but we will do our best to allocate as many cards per outlet as possible based on demand. Once processed, the cards will be delivered by post to customers to distribute to bar staff directly.GUINNESS IRELAND FUND TERMS AND CONDITIONS<ol><li>In order to be eligible to make an application for the support offered by this fund, on your employees’ behalf, you must be a Diageo customer, with a live Diageo ship to number in ROI and/or NI (‘Eligible Customer’).</li><li>Guinness has pledged a fund of €1,100,000 (the ‘Guinness Ireland Fund’) to support bartenders across Ireland who have been impacted by the Covid-19 crisis (the ‘Intended Purpose’). In order to administer the Guinness Ireland Fund, Guinness will make available a total number of 10,000 x €/£100 prepaid MasterCard gift cards (the ‘Gift Cards’). It will be open to Eligible Customers to apply for a Gift Card (or Gift Cards) on behalf of their impacted employees that need this support most.</li><li>The Gift Cards will be preloaded with €/£100 and may be used anywhere you see the Mastercard acceptance mark including in supermarkets and online.</li><li>Eligible Customers must submit their application through the MyDiageo.com website. It will not be necessary for Eligible Customers to have registered on MyDiageo.com previously in order to apply for the Gift Cards, but you will need to provide all the required information, through the platform, in order to be considered for an allocation of Gift Card(s). The Gift Cards will be non-transferable.</li><li>Applications will open through the MyDiageo.com platform from 1st April 2020 and close on 3rd April 2020, at 10am.</li><li>Eligible customers may apply for any number of Gift Cards for a given outlet but may only make one application per outlet.</li><li>The Gift Cards will be issued and allocated entirely at Diageo’s discretion, and you may not receive the total number of Gift Cards you have requested in your application.</li><li>Once the information submitted by Eligible Customers has been reviewed and verified the Gift Cards to be issued to You, at Diageo’s discretion, on behalf of your impacted employees, and will be sent to you by post to the postal address provided.</li><li>Diageo will aim to process applications in a timely way but it may take a number of weeks to validate and sort through the applications, and then for the Gift Cards to arrive for distribution by you amongst your bar staff.</li><li>If successful in receiving an allocation of Gift Card(s) on behalf of your employees, you will be expected distribute the Gift Card(s) to and amongst your bar staff fairly and equitably, limiting one Gift Card per employee, prioritising and helping those most in need of support in furtherance of the Intended Purpose. If Diageo becomes aware that you have not used the Gift Card(s) for the Intended Purpose or abused the application process, Diageo will reserve the right to reclaim the sum preloaded on the Gift Card directly from You.</li><li>You will also be responsible for documenting receipt of the Gift Cards by your employees.</li><li>Eligible Customers who submit an application for Gift Cards consent to being contacted to take part in publicity for the Guinness Ireland Fund in future.</li><li>Diageo reserves the right to withdraw or amend the terms of the Guinness Ireland Fund in the event of any unforeseen circumstances arising outside of its reasonable control.</li><li>Diageo reserves the right to terminate or temporarily suspend the Guinness Ireland Fund in the event of technical or other difficulties that might compromise its administration.</li><li>Diageo will only use the personal data provided by you for the purpose of carrying out the Guinness Ireland Fund and for no other purpose, unless Diageo obtains your consent. The personal data provided by you may be shared with trusted third parties as part of the administration of the Guinness Ireland Fund and will at all times be kept confidential and in accordance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2016/679). Diageo’s privacy policy can be found here: <a href="https://footer.diageohorizon.com/dfs/assets/www.diageo.com/PrivacyPolicy_en.html?locale=en-gb" target="_blank">https://footer.diageohorizon.com/dfs/assets/www.diageo.com/PrivacyPolicy_en.html?locale=en-gb</a></li><li>The Guinness Ireland Fund and these terms are governed by the law of Ireland and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Irish courts.</li><li>Participant outlets are deemed to have accepted these terms and conditions by participating in the bartender pledge.</li></ol> <a href="https://www.mydiageo.com/s/login/" target="_blank">APPLY HERE.</a>

Guinness is providing 10,000 x €100 pre-paid Mastercards to bar staff

COVID-19 Income Supports Employer &amp; Employee Guidance Answers to Frequently Asked Questions Updated 01.04.2020Table of ContentsSection 01OverviewSection 02Illness/Self-IsolationSection 03Temporary Lay-off/UnemploymentSection 04Frequently Asked QuestionsOverviewThe Government announced a number of new measures to provide financial support to workers affected by the COVID-19 crisis. As part of these measures, the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection is administering a number of emergency income support payments. These schemes/payments enable employees, whose employers are affected by the pandemic, to receive significant supports during the period of the pandemic.This document provides employers and employees with additional information on the operation of these temporary supports. It also presents a number of detailed Q&amp;A and scenarios to assist employees, self-employed and employers at this challenging time.It should be read in conjunction with the individual scheme information available on our website at gov.ie/deasp.This information may be updated, and any updates will be published on our dedicated COVID-19 website at gov.ie/deaspcovid19.In considering how to respond to questions employers and employees are directed in the first instance to the public health advice issued by the HSE, available on their website www.hse.ie. It is essential that all individuals and employers abide by this advice  Frequently asked questions on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment/Illness PaymentsQuestions Answered:<ul><li>What is the best way to apply for a COVID-19 unemployment or illness payment?</li><li>How do I know if I am eligible for the COVID-19 unemployment payment?</li><li>What do I do if I have already claimed the payment but am not eligible?</li><li>I made a claim for the COVID-19 payment but have received nothing. What should I do?</li><li>I am an Irish resident worker, but I use an overseas or international bank account. How can I get a payment?</li><li>I am a worker who has been asked by my employer to stay at home, but she/he is still paying me some or all of my wages. What should I do?</li><li>I am a worker who has been asked by my employer to stay at home, but she/he cannot pay me anything. What can I claim?</li><li>I am a self-employed worker whose trade has ceased or fallen away.</li><li>I claimed a COVID-19 jobseeker payment but now my employer is paying me. What should I do?</li><li>I am a worker who was also in receipt of a social welfare payment while at work. What is my position?</li><li>I am a worker who works on one side of the border with Northern Ireland but lives on the other. What are my rights?</li><li>I am a worker aged over 66 who has lost my employment income am I entitled to a payment?</li><li>I am in employment and am concerned I might catch the virus from colleagues. Can I leave work and claim the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment?</li><li>Part-time/casual jobseekers who lose their employment – do they qualify for the €350 Pandemic Unemployment Payment?</li><li>How will employees’ PRSI contributions be affected if employer avails of the temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme or a worker claims the COVID-19 emergency payment?</li><li>How does the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment/COVID Wage Subsidy Scheme impact Maternity/Paternity/Adoptive leave?</li><li>I am a person who is required to ‘cocoon’. How can I collect my social welfare payment?</li><li>I am a worker who needs to self-isolate or who is ill with COVID-19. What should I do?</li><li>I am not an employee or self-employed worker but I do receive a social welfare payment. What should I do?</li><li>What happens when I finish my period of self-isolation or when my illness clears up?</li></ul><a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.gov.ie%2F72299%2F8548595821b442bfb16c50bd01ea7588.pdf%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0IKiG7ZKAcVOyOs6B4ZC1MQutGBGcNoT_IrJRCfdszC89HitS3ie6Y53E&amp;h=AT3woRoaTkd0rf3vWgEhfwJX-SoQpaC5hEe5H7wnymWO78XH7wXFPonJAlQlwTiZAKdyNYcVQ68yR-BsNHON00xMpH5sI3SKdRfDO63eMLdG94rBuHoZcsRU7MZ25Buxhhm70QaGBBVciT7uUSn1fAwHyQoPj6kepaPk1OhTCC6gARzllS3546pwkheIN7HsBN-kojgSsjHP1i_TaAscbA6E60tLCfu_kwELbXaESDtlRvE41iH_PgjT6Yu-BjaMo_qA6Psd8W_o4jqRcgn9BbHEGvbOhu5ekUOeMmbO4M2O1gkMOMaK1qKB521uyy5wW7vv1c3IrcYYnaSqSULG8GcYxC5ZYfc8K9r_FBBR8WNjdrAUmW05S788qxoPJWdPJ9vDRR9k_kzOC_4zB_zrmKv90tKJCGBq-4Dmk4JMN1H2Cg5jETxNjgH1QAww9MvJ4TQ5mEzTrs1zgkHxNpTgn58wr282t9QzMLzZPD-pUCaopsxphD1Q5fXqVDQoUZfATqS0dXbhmEprudldyycmxGVYXSh51upv7UnVozQthyqes2EnnA90mT6dm3u4-h9Ij_RH9wRI95D_USroejg1zKrCAfFF9OjE8wwNNob_rsmYe7uKy5Eb4H7qMlucclTuB3VyGAg" target="_blank">Download the complete question and answer document here.</a>Also - if you need more information on the Wage Subsidy Scheme, the Revenue have released a question and answer document too.<a href="https://www.revenue.ie/en/employing-people/documents/pmod-topics/guidance-on-operation-of-temporary-covid-wage-subsidy-scheme.pdf" target="_blank"> Click here to download. </a>For any further queries - The Covid_19 Income Support Phone-Line is open from 9am to 5pm: 01-248-1398 / 1890-800-024. Take care.

UPDATED: COVID-19 Income Supports - Frequently Asked Questions

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The Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners Niall Cody has urged more businesses to sign up for the government&#x27;s Covid-19 wage subsidy scheme, which will see employees receiving between 75% - 100% of their wages rather than laying people off.He assured employers that they will not be deemed insolvent if they avail of the government&#x27;s Covid-19 wage subsidy scheme, in fact he said it will be a “Mark of honour for employers who did the right thing&quot;.Concerns had emerged that an unpaid wages declaration would effectively be an admission that employers were trading while insolvent.The key criterion is an employer&#x27;s declaration that disruption brought about by the pandemic has resulted in sales being cut by 25%.The Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners Niall Cody said that he does not believe it will be a challenge for employers to prove that their income has been reduced by more than 25% during this crisis.Chartered Accountants Ireland has recommended that employers keep any supporting records to demonstrate the negative impact so they can clarify issues with Revenue, should they arise.The Revenue Chairman has however urged employers to be careful when filling out applications for the Government&#x27;s Covid-19 wage subsidy scheme to ensure that they fill their details in correctly. Niall Cody said there are 26,000 employers in the scheme already but there is still a small number, in the hundreds, that entered incorrect bank details. Mr Cody said this means Revenue is &quot;sitting on money&quot; that it wants to pay out to companies. He told Morning Ireland that €8m was paid to the scheme yesterday and €9m will be paid today.He added that he believes that number will continue to rise. Niall Cody said employers should not worry about being published on the list of companies who applied for the scheme and as mentioned previously he said it will be &quot;a mark of honour for employers who did the right thing&quot;. Mr Cody said Revenue guidelines show that even if a company has cash reserves for debt or future expansions they can still qualify for the scheme. The purpose of the scheme, he said, is to support employers and leave them in a position to be a valid business when the recovery comes.Mr Cody said businesses applying for the scheme will have an ongoing relationship with Revenue and he does not anticipate that many businesses will need to be reviewed at the end of the scheme.The purpose for the scheme is to leave companies in a position to be a viable business when we get through COVID-19.  Hear his full interview on this link <a href="https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0331/1127480-revenue-on-wage-subsidy-scheme/" target="_blank">HERE</a>

Wage Subsidy Scheme “Mark of honour for employers who did the right thing"

<h1></h1><h2>Important Information Notice</h2>Published: 26 March 2020From: Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection<h2>Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme</h2>The <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/578596-covid-19-wage-subsidy/" target="_blank">Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme</a> is a new scheme introduced to help employers retain workers on their payrolls during a period of reduced trading or temporary lay-off related to the Covid-19 pandemic. This new subsidy will cover 70% the net salary of workers, up to a maximum of €410 per week. Many employers will ‘top-up’ this salary to pay their workers as close as possible to their normal full wage. If you are self-employed you should apply for the <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/be74d3-covid-19-pandemic-unemployment-payment/" target="_blank">COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment. </a>Is the scheme open to directors?If directors are paid through the payroll system and are included in the relevant payroll submissions for an eligible employer, then they are eligible to receive the wage subsidy.For more information and to apply for the <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/578596-covid-19-wage-subsidy/" target="_blank">Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme</a> <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/578596-covid-19-wage-subsidy/" target="_blank">click here.</a><h2>COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment</h2>The <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/be74d3-covid-19-pandemic-unemployment-payment/" target="_blank">Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment </a>is an emergency payment of €350 per week introduced by the Government for a 12 week period and intended to compensate those workers whose employers cannot retain them on their payroll. The payment will also be made to people who are self-employed but whose trade has temporarily ceased.Do not claim the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment if your employer has not laid you off or if you were not previously in employment or if you are still in receipt of employment income, or if your employer takes you back onto their payroll.If you think you inadvertently applied for the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment, or if your employer has re-employed you under the new Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme, you must close your Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment claim now. Claims can be closed via the Department’s online portal at <a href="https://www.mywelfare.ie/" target="_blank">MyWelfare.ie</a> under the Covid-19 payment section.You are eligible to apply for the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment if…<ul><li>You were in employment or self-employment immediately before Friday 13 March</li></ul>and<ul><li>You have been temporarily laid-off from work or asked to stay at home from work</li></ul>and<ul><li>Your employer is not in a position to retain you on their payroll</li></ul>and<ul><li>You are not in receipt of any employment income.</li></ul>You are not eligible to apply for the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment if…<ul><li>You were not in employment immediately before Friday 13 March</li></ul>or<ul><li>You were not laid-off from work by your employer</li></ul>or<ul><li>You are continuing to receive income from your employment</li></ul>or<ul><li>You voluntarily left your employment.</li></ul>The payment also applies to:<ul><li>non EU/EEA workers who have lost employment due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic</li><li>students (and non-EU/EEA students) who have lost employment due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic</li><li>part-time workers</li></ul>The Department will review all claims. It is engaging with Revenue Commissioners to identify those workers not eligible to avail of the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment and will take steps to recover any incorrect payment. Any person who knowingly claims the payment in circumstances where they are not entitled to the payment will be prosecuted.The co-operation of the public in ensuring that only correct claims are submitted is greatly appreciated. This ensures that we can process claims for people who really need the support as quickly as possible.For more information and to apply for the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/be74d3-covid-19-pandemic-unemployment-payment/" target="_blank">click here.</a>Payment Update for COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment and Jobseeker ClaimsPublished: 26 March 2020From: Department of Employment Affairs and Social ProtectionThe Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection has experienced unprecedented demand for income supports including the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment and Jobseeker payments since 13 March.The level of demand equates to 10 months normal claim-load in just 10 working days.The department wishes to assure its customers that it is processing these claims as fast as possible and that staff have been working long hours, over weekends and the bank holiday to ensure that claims are processed as quickly as possible.The first COVID-19 related payments, for approximately 90% of claims received from 13 – 19 March were issued last Friday, 20 March and were in customer’s bank accounts on Tuesday, 24 March.Some payments did not go forward for various reasons. This is normal. For example some claims may not have met eligibility criteria. Other payments may have been held back due to an error with an IBAN number or an inconsistency between PPSNs. The department is working very hard to resolve these issues and is contacting the customers concerned directly.Again this week nearly all claims received since 19 March and up to close of business today (Thursday 26 March) will be processed for payment tomorrow, Friday and will be in customer&#x27;s bank accounts on Tuesday 31 March.The department is processing payments into Irish bank accounts and via the Post Office network only. We wish to reassure people that where they are entitled they will receive a payment from the department as soon as possible. Should there be any issues with individual payments the department will contact the claimants directly.<h2>COVID-19 Enhanced Illness Benefit</h2>If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or are medically certified to self-isolate as a result of COVID-19, you can apply for <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/df55ae-how-to-apply-for-illness-benefit-for-covid-19-absences/" target="_blank">Illness Benefit for COVID-19</a> absences which is higher than the standard rate. <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/df55ae-how-to-apply-for-illness-benefit-for-covid-19-absences/" target="_blank">You can apply for this whether you are an employee or if you are self-employed.</a>If you are a worker affected by COVID-19 (Coronavirus) there are various payments that you can claim from the department.As well as this, you do not need to sign on or attend back to work courses for as long as the Coronavirus pandemic lasts. Weekly dockets must still be signed, however.<h2>Helpful Information</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/6f81e1-people-who-are-diagnosed-with-covid-19/" target="_blank">What to do if you are diagnosed with COVID-19</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b8135c-people-who-are-not-diagnosed-with-covid-19-but-who-self-isolate/" target="_blank">What to do if you are not diagnosed with COVID-19 but have been told by a doctor to self-isolate</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/00964f-people-who-are-laid-off-temporarily-or-put-on-to-short-time-working/" target="_blank">What to do if you are laid off temporarily or put on to short-time working</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/a75c73-what-to-do-if-you-are-a-student-who-has-lost-your-job-because-of-cor/" target="_blank">What to do if you are a student who has lost your job because of Coronavirus</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/5cc237-what-to-do-if-youre-a-casual-worker-on-xs-and-os-during-coronavirus/" target="_blank">What to do if you&#x27;re a casual worker on Xs and Os during Coronavirus</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/9c3318-what-to-do-if-you-are-receiving-your-social-welfare-payment-into-the/" target="_blank">What to do if you are receiving your social welfare payment into the Post Office</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/8ace3a-change-amend-your-bank-details/" target="_blank">How to get a social welfare payment into your bank</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/8102d2-new-social-welfare-payment-details/" target="_blank">Temporary Social Welfare payment arrangement</a></li></ul>

Important updates on Emergency Payment, Wage Subsidy Scheme & Payment Dates

<h1></h1><h2>Minister Katherine Zappone announces measures to support Childcare Providers and Parents during COVID-19 closures</h2>Published: 25 March 2020From: Department of Children and Youth AffairsFollowing the announcement yesterday of sustainability measures in response to COVID-19 by the government, Minister Katherine Zappone has provided further details to support the Childcare sector.Outlining these measures, Minister Zappone said:“These measures will:<ul><li>help to ensure that the Childcare Sector is in a position to reopen after COVID-19</li><li>provide parents with a reassurance that they are not required to pay childcare fees during this COVID-19 crisis, while providing them with reassurance that they will maintain their childcare places</li><li>give Early Learning and Care Educators security</li><li>retain vital Early Learning and Care Educators in the sector.”</li></ul>The measures are as follows:<ul><li>Revenue will reimburse childcare employers by 70% of their pre COVID-19 staff costs</li><li>in addition, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs will reimburse childcare employers by 30% of their pre COVID-19 staff costs</li><li>the Department of Children and Youth Affairs will pay a retention top-up designed to retain staff in the sector</li><li>the Department of Children and Youth Affairs will fund Childcare Providers with a proportion of staff costs during the closure period to assist with their ongoing costs where needed</li></ul>These emergency measures will apply for up to 12 weeks in line with the government’s announcement yesterday and reflect the unique challenges and demands facing the sector.They involve the re-purposing of funds already allocated to support the childcare sector.Childcare Providers will be required to sign a new COVID-19 Emergency Agreement.This will require providers to agree to a number of conditions that will include:<ul><li>not charging parents for childcare fees from this month onwards</li><li>assure parents that their children’s places are as secure as they can be post COVID-19</li><li>agree to ensure staff are paid at pre COVID-19 levels, with the benefit of the funding from Revenue and DCYA</li><li>take active steps to reinstate their staff that have already been laid off on the same terms as above (with staff reinstated on pre COVID-19 terms and conditions)</li><li>staff would use this time for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and other professional activities. Employers will use this time to catch up on administrative tasks and familiarise themselves further with the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) and any other resources, including new resources which will be developed in the coming weeks</li><li>give consent to Revenue to provide evidence of staff costs to allow the Department of Children and Youth Affairs to process payments to providers</li></ul>State income is already in place for Childcare Providers until the end of this week.The Minister stressed that these are emergency measures that will apply for up to 12 weeks, in accordance with the government’s decisions in this area.The Department of Children and Youth Affairs will roll out these measures as quickly as possible.COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Childcare Workers to be Paid in Full

The government has today announced a National COVID-19 Income Support Scheme.This will provide financial support to Irish workers and companies affected by the crisis.In summary:<ul><li>a <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/578596-covid-19-wage-subsidy/" target="_blank">temporary wage subsidy of 70%</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/578596-covid-19-wage-subsidy/" target="_blank"> (More info and apply here from the 26th of March 2020) </a>of take home pay up to a maximum weekly tax free amount of €410 per week to help affected companies keep paying their employees. This is the equivalent of €500 per week before tax</li><li>workers who have lost their jobs due to the crisis will receive an enhanced emergency <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/be74d3-covid-19-pandemic-unemployment-payment/" target="_blank">COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment</a> of €350 per week (an increase from €203)</li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/df55ae-how-to-apply-for-illness-benefit-for-covid-19-absences/" target="_blank">the COVID-19 illness payment </a>will also be increased to €350 per week</li><li>the self-employed will be eligible for the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment of €350 directly from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (rather than the Revenue scheme)</li><li>enhanced protections for people facing difficulties with their mortgages, rent or utility bills</li></ul>It follows from a range of supports already in place to help business through the crisis.The government is taking these extraordinary measures to help ordinary Irish citizens and families during this period of great economic and social stress.These measures will be costly – with an initial estimated cost of €3.7 billion over a twelve week period.The government believes these costs are necessary to ensure social solidarity with workers and their families affected by the crisis.<h2>Income Support Scheme</h2>An eligible employer will be supported up to 70% of an employee’s take home income up to a maximum weekly tax free payment of €410 (that is, 70% of take home weekly income of €38,000 per anuum).The scheme will provide support on incomes up to €76,000 or twice average earnings. It will be capped at net €350 for incomes between €38,000 and €76,000.The employer is expected to make best efforts to maintain as close to 100% of normal income as possible for the subsidised period.Revenue will provide further guidance on operation of the scheme.There will be severe penalties for any abuse of the scheme.<h2>Eligibility for the Income Support Scheme</h2>Employers must self-declare to Revenue that they have experienced significant negative economic disruption due to COVID-19, with a minimum of 25% decline in turnover, and an inability to pay normal wages and other outgoings, in accordance with guidance to be issued by Revenue.This scheme is open to impacted employers in all sectors. This recognises the impact that COVID-19 is having across all parts of the economy.The employee must have been on the payroll in February 2020.<h2>Self-employed workers</h2>Self-employed who qualify will be paid the <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/be74d3-covid-19-pandemic-unemployment-payment/" target="_blank">COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment</a> of €350 rather than through the Revenue scheme. They will be eligible on a similar basis as the Revenue scheme for employees.<h2>How to apply</h2>Revenue and the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection will provide details to employers today on how to apply.<h2>Eligibility for COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment</h2>People who have already been approved for the<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/be74d3-covid-19-pandemic-unemployment-payment/" target="_blank"> COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment</a> will now get an increased payment of €350 per week (instead of €203) at their next payment date. Anyone else who loses their job due to the COVID-19 crisis can apply to the department for payment at the new rate.The COVID-19 illness payment will also be increased to €350 per week.Further details are available from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.<h2>Duration of the Income Support Scheme</h2>The new Scheme will be in place for twelve weeks.<h2>Cost of the schemes</h2>It is estimated that these new measures will cost approximately €3.7 billion over the 12 week period.<h2>Exchequer affordability</h2>The full economic impact of the COVID-19 crisis is subject to considerable uncertainty but will clearly have a very significant negative impact on the Exchequer.However, these measures are necessary to provide support to workers, their families, and companies at a time of great economic and social stress.The State will be able to fund these measures, but it will generate additional debt which will need to be paid off in the future.Ireland is well placed to increase its borrowing activity in the coming years. This additional borrowing will take place against a backdrop of a strong improvement in Ireland’s debt position in recent years, which has been reflected in a solid trend of lower borrowing costs, strong demand for Irish sovereign debt among international investors over a protracted period and ratings upgrades by each of the major credit rating agencies.Our strategy in recent years of prefunding liabilities means we have already built up strong cash balances. At the end of February, we had €26 billion in cash effectively funding this year’s €19 billion of redemptions.<h2>Measures in place for renters</h2>The government is introducing legislation to prevent both the termination of residential tenancies and any rent increases for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis.The banks have also said they will support buy-to-let bank customers with tenants affected by COVID-19 with an opportunity to seek a payment break of up to 3 months – so they can in turn offer forbearance to their tenants.Rent Supplement is also available as a short-term income support to those in the private rented sector who are experiencing difficulty paying their rent. In view of the difficulties created for many in the private rented sector who have lost significant employment income, the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection will use the full flexibility of the scheme to provide the necessary support.<h2>Measures in place for mortgage holders</h2>A series of measures to support people impacted by COVID-19 have been announced by the banking sector.These include:<ul><li>flexible arrangements, including a payment break for mortgages and other loans. Customers affected by COVID-19 must contact their bank to discuss the flexibility available to them, including the possibility of a payment break of up to 3 months. Non-bank mortgage lenders and credit servicing firms have also announced their support for this measure</li><li>support for buy-to-let bank customers with tenants affected by COVID-19 – customers with rental property in which the tenants are adversely impacted by COVID-19 will also be provided with flexibility including with an opportunity to seek a payment break of up to 3 months, which will allow them to exercise due levels of forbearance to their tenants</li><li>payment breaks as a result of COVID-19 will not affect credit records</li></ul><h2>Measures in place for people struggling with utility bills</h2>The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) has issued a moratorium on disconnections of domestic customers for non-payment to the gas and electricity suppliers.The suppliers have arrangements in place for any domestic/residential customers in arrears which are overseen by CRU and have a number of emergency provisions to assist Pay As You Go customers.<h2>Supports for business</h2>In addition to the Scheme being announced today, the government has already announced a range of measures including:(i) financial supports, including a €200 million Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland Working Capital scheme; a €200 million Rescue and Restructuring Scheme available through Enterprise Ireland for vulnerable but viable firms; the maximum loan available from Microfinance Ireland has been increased from €25,000 to €50,000 (these loans are now interest free with no repayments for 6 months); Local Enterprise Offices in every county will be providing vouchers from €2,500 up to €10,000; a Finance in Focus grant of €7,200 will be available to Enterprise Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta clients.(ii) other supports including a First Responder support service through the Intreo Offices and development agencies, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland in each region to provide tailored supports for affected businesses; the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection Short Term Work Support Scheme.(iii) deferral of Business Rates: the government has agreed with local authorities that they should defer rates payments due from the most immediately affected businesses, primarily in the retail, hospitality, leisure and childcare sectors, until the end of May.(iv) Taxation Measures to alleviate short-term difficulties: Revenue has also posted specific advice for businesses experiencing trading difficulties as a result of COVID-19 including information on tax returns, the application of late payment interest, debt enforcement, tax clearance and customs.These are the highlights:<ul><li>interest on late payments is suspended for January/February VAT and both February and March PAYE (Employers) liabilities</li><li>all debt enforcement activity is suspended until further notice</li><li>current tax clearance status will remain in place for all businesses over the coming months</li><li>the Relevant Contract Tax (RCT) rate review scheduled to take place this month (March) is suspended</li><li>critical pharmaceutical products and medicines will be given a Customs ‘green routing’ to facilitate uninterrupted importation and supply</li></ul>(v) Banking and Credit Measures: All the banks have announced that they will offer flexibility to their customers, and they may be able to provide payment holidays or emergency working capital facilities.The main non-bank lenders also confirmed their intention to also support the range of measures announced by the country’s main retail banks which is to be welcomed.A deferral of up to 3-months on loan repayments will be available to many businesses. In addition, the banks are adopting a customer-focussed approach to these businesses with a wide variety of tailored supports including extensions of credit lines, risk guarantees, and trade finance. These supports complement the range of government supports available through the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland.The Central bank has confirmed that it will allow banks to dip into their rainy-day capital reserves to keep lending flowing. It is anticipated that this move could free up considerable additional credit for households and businesses.A small but important change for many businesses is the limit for contactless credit card payments has been raised from €30 to €50.COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>