Can anyone advise what entitlements are available given the circumstances below as I think there may be benefits & entitlements not being claimed which would help a lot.
Husband approaching 64, worked in construction last 25 years, unemployed in the last 3 weeks.
Wife approaching 60, currently working approx 20 hours per week BUT on a week on, week off basis.
Couple have one dependent still in full time second level education.
Husband due to recent unemployment is to 'sign on' and with good advice from welfare office should end up with correct entitlements.
The key question is really regarding the wife's situation.
1.What can be claimed for the hours not being worked bearing in mind due to week on / week off the nett working hours per week is just ten.
2.When higher paying / additional hours of employment are required but not available with current employer is there any sort of jobseekers allowance available in this scenario.
3.Has the wife in this scenario been losing out on PRSI contribution having never been signing on for any benefit or 'stamp' for the entire duration (4 to 5 years) of this employment.
Husband approaching 64, worked in construction last 25 years, unemployed in the last 3 weeks.
Wife approaching 60, currently working approx 20 hours per week BUT on a week on, week off basis.
Couple have one dependent still in full time second level education.
Husband due to recent unemployment is to 'sign on' and with good advice from welfare office should end up with correct entitlements.
The key question is really regarding the wife's situation.
1.What can be claimed for the hours not being worked bearing in mind due to week on / week off the nett working hours per week is just ten.
2.When higher paying / additional hours of employment are required but not available with current employer is there any sort of jobseekers allowance available in this scenario.
3.Has the wife in this scenario been losing out on PRSI contribution having never been signing on for any benefit or 'stamp' for the entire duration (4 to 5 years) of this employment.