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12/03/2020 An Post has just announced special arrangements for post office customers in receipt of payments from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP). 

In the event of a customer not being able to collect their DEASP payment personally at the Post Office a nominated person (Temporary Agent) can be nominated to collect the payment on their behalf. 

When collecting a payment, a ‘Temporary Agent’ must produce the recipient&#39;s card as issued by the DEASP as well as their own valid photo I.D. e.g current Passport, Driving Licence or Public Service Card.

To become a Temporary Agent, the recipient must complete the required form which is available from the Post Office.

Post offices throughout the country continue to operate as normal. We are carefully monitoring the situation regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Business Continuity Plans are in place and we are working closely with the HSE Expert team, the Health Threats Coordination Group and international postal organisations. See anpost.com for further updates.
<a href="https://www.anpost.com/AnPost/media/PDFs/Appointment-of-Temporary-Agent.pdf">
Download appointment of temporary agent application form</a>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">here.</a>

An Post will allow you to nominate someone to collect your welfare payment 

Section 1: COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment
 - Emergency Payment for Employees and the Self Employed.Section 2. Employees: How to apply for Jobseeker&#39;s Payments online - for people losing their jobs or going on Short-Time due to COVID-19. *Must be completed within the next 6 weeks after receipt of the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment. Section 3. Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed). *Must be completed within the next 6 weeks after receipt of the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment. Section 4. All other important COVID-19 information for both Employees and Employers.-Section 1: COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment
 - Emergency Payment for Employees and the Self Employed.What COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment isThis new payment will be available to all employees and the self-employed who have lost employment due to a downturn in economic activity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The payment has a simple one–page application form and will be paid for a period of 6 weeks at a flat rate payment of €350 per week for jobseekers. It is designed to quickly deliver a social welfare payment to the unemployed and provide income security during this 6-week period.Individuals applying for the payment will be required to apply for the normal jobseeker’s payments within this 6-week period. Once this normal jobseeker claim is subsequently received, the department will process these claims and reconcile payments at that time. This will involve backdating increased payments for certain customers. Minister for Employment Regina Doherty stated:“Ireland has entered unchartered territory as a consequence of the spread of Covid-19. This is now both a public health and economic issue.“In light of the significant volumes of jobseeker applications expected this week, the Department will from tomorrow be introducing a new Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment specifically designed to get thousands of people into payment as quickly as possible.”The new payment that has been put in place will be available to all employees and the self-employed who have lost employment due to a downturn in economic activity caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.The payment will have a simple one – page application form and will be paid for a period of 6 weeks at a flat rate payment of €350 per week.Individuals applying for the payment will be required to apply for the normal jobseeker’s payments within this 6 week period. Once this normal jobseeker claim is subsequently received, the Department will process these claims and reconcile payments at that time. This will involve backdating increased payments for certain customers.How to ApplyThere is no need for to attend your local Intreo Centre but you can apply in the following ways:This guide describes how to apply for the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment - <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/71477/5df3b7f1f0fc454faefd8f906100ff99.pdf">Download here.</a>An application form for the new Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment can be <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/71472/a026043e90cc4d03bdfb1f3a58f3d7af.pdf">downloaded here</a> and returned to us to PO BOX 12896, Dublin 1ORYou can apply for another income support from us through our online portal <a href="https://services.mywelfare.ie/">www.MyWelfare.ie</a> (you will need a Public Services Card)ORPhone us on 1890 800 024 or 01 2481398 and we will send you the relevant application form for the new payment.I am unable to print forms to claim for social welfare payments? Request a Form By Post - This email address is only for application forms. Email: forms@welfare.ieA dedicated Help Line set up for businesses around COVID-19 has also been set up. Call: +353 1 631 2002.Minister Doherty added:“I want to reassure our clients that the Department will process all applications for income support as soon as possible. The new payment will speed this process up and ensure that our customers receive a payment from the Department in as short a time as possible. Payments will issue based on date of application, not date of processing, meaning that all payments will be back dated. We would ask customers to please keep checking your Bank Account as payment may issue in advance of us formally notifying you.”We would ask the members of the public to please assist us over the next few days by applying for income support from the department, such as the full Jobseekers Payment, through our online channel mywelfare.ie. See the below information to get started. <h2>Section 2. Employees: How to apply for Jobseeker&#39;s Payments online - for people losing their jobs or going on Short-Time due to COVID-19.</h2>The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection are experiencing an unprecedented increase in claims and queries across several of the department’s income support schemes, most notably our Jobseeker&#39;s schemes.Combined with measures to apply social distancing, this large increase in claims caused delays in many of our Intreo Centres yesterday, for which we apologise.The department is making every effort to process applications from people losing their jobs or going on Short-Time due to COVID-19. The department has put in place a series of contingencies to deal with the impact of COVID-19 and these include staff working over the weekend, overtime and significant staff numbers being redeployed to priority areas to respond to increases in jobseeker applications. How to apply for Jobseeker&#39;s Payments:In order to respond as quickly as possible to the large increase, the department would point out that there is, in many cases, no need for people to attend an office in person to submit an application.If possible, we would ask people to:Download the application form from our <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/cb3726-jobseekers-payments/">website</a>. This can then be posted or dropped in to your<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/directory/category/e1f4b5-intreo-offices/?referrer=/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/"> local Intreo Centre</a> ORApply on our online portal (you will need a Public Services Card) - <a href="https://services.mywelfare.ie/">https://services.mywelfare.ie/</a> <h2>Section 3. Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed)</h2>If you are self-employed and your business has reduced significantly or closed, you can apply for Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed).What Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed) isJobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed) is a payment for people between 18 and 66 who become fully or partly unemployed and have paid enough pay-related social insurance (PRSI) contributions.Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed) is paid for nine months or six months depending on the number of social insurance contributions you have.How to qualifyTo qualify for Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed), you must:<ul><li>be under pension age (which is currently 66)</li><li>satisfy the PRSI contribution conditions</li><li>not be engaged in self-employment</li><li>be capable of working and available for full-time work</li><li>be genuinely seeking work</li><li>prove unemployment in the prescribed manner</li></ul>You can work as an employee for up to 3 days a week and still get Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed) for the other days as long as you are available for full-time work.Social Insurance (PRSI) ContributionsTo qualify for Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed), you must satisfy two PRSI contribution conditions.Condition 1You must have 156 Class “S” contributions paid or 104 Class “A” contributions paid since entering insurable employment.Condition 2You must have 52 Class “S” contributions paid in the governing contribution year.The governing contribution year is the second last complete tax year before the year in which the claim is made. For example, for claims made in 2019, the governing contribution year is 2017. Jobseekers over 62If you are over the age of 62 and receiving Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed), you do not have to:• Meet with a case officer in your<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/"> local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office</a>• Sign on monthlyIn most cases, you can have your payment paid directly to a bank account.Jobseekers over 65If you are 65, or turn 65 while receiving Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed), and have at least 156 social insurance (PRSI) contribution weeks paid and have 52 PRSI Class “S” contributions paid in the governing contribution year you can continue to receive your payment up to your 66th birthday.This applies even if your claim is due to end before that date.How To Apply For Jobseeker&#39;s Payment (Self-Employed)To apply, please fill in the application form (available below). This can then be posted or dropped in to your <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/">local Intreo Centre.</a>You should apply as soon as you are no longer self-employed otherwise you could lose some payment.To apply, you will need the following documents, in addition to the application form:• Identification: your Public Services Card (PSC), passport or driving licence• Proof of your address: a recent utility bill or letter from a government departmentYou can apply even if you do not have all of the documents but you cannot get a decision on your application until you have provided all of the documents.Application Form: Please complete in Black Pen using BLOCK LETTERS. Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed) (UP1 JBSE) - <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/42221/798cc6889e3249bc88103db93d52cb91.pdf">Download Here.</a>AppealsYou can appeal a decision if you are unhappy with it. You should appeal within 21 days of the decision and you can ask for an oral hearing.An appeals officer, whose decision is final, will then decide your case. Some cases can be decided without an oral hearing.If new information comes to light or your circumstances change, you can apply for Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed) again.Additional information for Self Employed people: Extra benefits:If you are getting Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed), you may be entitled to:• Rent Supplement - a payment under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/supplementary_welfare_schemes/rent_supplement.html">Details here.</a>• Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance - an allowance to help with the cost of uniforms and footwear for children who are attending school - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/social_welfare_payments_to_families_and_children/back_to_school_clothing_and_footwear_allowance.html">Details here.</a>• Medical card - if your income is below a certain level, you may get a medical card - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/health/medical_cards_and_gp_visit_cards/medical_card.html">Details here.</a>• You do not qualify for the Household Benefits Package or Free Travel with Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed).Taxation of Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed)Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (Self-Employed) is taxable. <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/irish_social_welfare_system/claiming_a_social_welfare_payment/taxation_of_social_welfare_payments.en.html">More info here.</a><h2>Section 4. All other important COVID-19 information for both Employees and Employers.</h2>Here are the latest COVID-19 updates from The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection:<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/govt-announces-national-covid-19-income-support-scheme">• Govt announces National COVID-19 Income Support Scheme</a> - Emergency pandemic payment will increase from €203 to €350. Workers who have lost their jobs due to the crisis will receive an enhanced emergency COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment of €350 per week (an increase from €203). Get all the details <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/govt-announces-national-covid-19-income-support-scheme"></a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/govt-announces-national-covid-19-income-support-scheme">here.</a>• Unable to collect social welfare payments? An Post will allow you to nominate someone to collect your welfare payment. Get all the details <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/an-post-will-allow-you-to-nominate-someone-to-collect-your-welfar">here.</a>• Has your work week been cut short? Short-time Work Support Payment is now available. Details <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/short-time-work-support-payment-if-you-re-working-week-has-been-c">here.</a>• Workers who are diagnosed with COVID-19 - <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-diagnosed-with-covid-19-how-to-apply-for-illness-">How to apply for illness benefit?</a>• Learn about your employment rights during COVID-19 restrictions <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/your-employment-rights-during-covid-19-restrictions">here.</a>• Have you been Laid-off or made redundant? Everything you need to know <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/lay-off-short-time-working-and-redundancy">here.</a>• Workers whose employers do not supplement the <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-whose-employers-do-not-supplement-the-state-illness-benef">State Illness Benefit payment</a>• Have you been requested to stay at home by your employer due to COVID-19? <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-requested-to-stay-at-home-by-their-employer-covid">Here&#39;s what you need to know. </a>• Help for workers who are laid off temporarily or <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-laid-off-temporarily-or-put-on-to-short-time-work">put on to short time working</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-need-to-take-time-off-to-care-for-person-affected-by-">• Workers who need to take time off to care for person affected by COVID-19</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-need-to-take-time-off-to-care-for-person-affected-by-">• </a>Support for your business: Learn about all of the Government supports for COVID-19 impacted businesses <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/government-supports-for-covid-19-impacted-businesses">here.</a>Employment opportunities with the HSEBe On Call For Ireland – Sign up now.The HSE is looking for healthcare &amp; non healthcare professionals.Calling all healthcare Professionals, all disciplines, retired, students and people with other skills that can help during the effects and impact of COVID-19.Ireland needs you and you will be paid a salary in line with the role you are appointed to.<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/be-on-call-for-ireland-hse-is-looking-for-healthcare-non-healthca">Click here for all the details. </a>Wishing you all health and happiness.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">here.</a>

Employees and Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker's Payment

Latest information from the department on COVID-19.The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection are introducing measures to provide income support to people affected by COVID-19 (Coronavirus).3 major changes have been announced:<ul><li>the current 6-day waiting period for Illness Benefit will not apply to anyone who has COVID-19 (Coronavirus) or is in medically-required self-isolation</li><li>the personal rate of Illness Benefit will increase from €203 per week to €305 per week for a maximum of 2 weeks medically-required self-isolation or for the full duration of absence from work following a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 (Coronavirus)</li><li>the normal social insurance requirements for <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/ddf6e3-illness-benefit/">Illness Benefit</a> will be changed or the means test for <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/36e514-supplementary-welfare-allowance/">Supplementary Welfare Allowance</a> will be removed</li></ul>You can access public health advice about COVID-19 (Coronavirus) at the<a href="https://www.gov.ie/coronavirus/"> government&#39;s information page.</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/pdf/71251/?page=1">See our quick guide If you are an employee or self-employed and feel you may have COVID-19, or may need to self-isolate as a result of COVID-19</a>Government has now urged all employers to support national public health objectives by continuing, as a minimum, to pay employees who cannot attend work due to Covid-19 illness or self-isolation the difference between the enhanced Illness Benefit rate and their normal wages.This may be achieved through the employer considering a range of flexible working arrangements with their employees such as:<ul><li>compassionate leave</li><li>allowing the employee to work remotely</li><li>allowing the staff member to ‘work-up’ any time taken at a future date</li><li>allowing the employee to avail of annual leave entitlements</li><li>rearranging parental leave</li></ul>A number of income supports are available from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection for people whose employers do not continue to pay them during a COVID-19 (Coronavirus) related absence or temporary lay-off from work.In considering how to respond to questions arising as a consequence of Covid-19 employers and employees are directed in the first instance to the public health advice issued by the HSE, available on their website <a href="https://www.hse.ie/eng/">www.HSE.ie</a>. It is essential that all individuals and employers abide by this advice.<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/aa51ba-who-the-enhanced-arrangements-are-intended-to-serve/">Who the enhanced arrangements are intended to support (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/11a04c-availability-of-the-enhanced-payment/">Availability of the enhanced payment (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/6f81e1-people-who-are-diagnosed-with-covid-19/">Workers who are diagnosed with COVID-19.</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b8135c-people-who-are-not-diagnosed-with-covid-19-but-who-self-isolate/">Workers who are not diagnosed with COVID-19 but who self-isolate.</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/a503ee-people-whose-employers-do-not-supplementtop-up-the-state-illness-ben/">Workers whose employers do not supplement/top-up the State Illness Benefit payment (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/fc829c-people-who-are-requested-to-stay-at-home-by-their-employer/">Workers who are requested to stay at home by their employer (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/00964f-people-who-are-laid-off-temporarily-or-put-on-to-short-time-working/">Workers who are laid off temporarily or put on to short time working (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/dffde6-people-who-need-to-take-time-off-work-to-care-for-a-person-affected-/">Workers who need to take time off work to care for a person affected by COVID-19 (Coronavirus).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/1c3354-people-already-in-receipt-of-social-welfare-payments/">People already in receipt of Social Welfare Payments (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/df55ae-how-to-apply-for-illness-benefit-for-covid-19-absences/">How to apply for Illness Benefit for COVID-19 absences</a><h2><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/df55ae-how-to-apply-for-illness-benefit-for-covid-19-absences/"></a>Further information on COVID-19 (Coronavirus)</h2>The department is committed to providing information and updates as the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation evolves. We recommend that you check this page and our <a href="https://twitter.com/welfare_ie">Twitter page </a>for regular updates.Employment rights information is available from the <a href="https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/">Workplace Relations Commission.</a><img src="https://jobalert-blog-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/image/Untitled-4.jpg222.jpg" alt="undefined"></img>Source: <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/99104a-covid-19-coronavirus/">gov.ie</a>Related Reading:<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/package-of-supports-for-businesses-impacted-by-covid-19">Package of supports for businesses impacted by COVID-19</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/covid-19-sick-pay-support-for-small-business-owners">Covid-19 Sick Pay &amp; Support for Small Business Owners</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/coronavirus-vaccine-volunteers-offered-3-500-to-be-infected-with-">Coronavirus vaccine: Volunteers offered £3,500 to be infected with the bug</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/coronavirus-vaccine-volunteers-offered-3-500-to-be-infected-with-"></a>

Short term work support available to those affected by COV-19 restrictions

The Government acknowledges that it&#39;s a worrying time for businesses and wants to provide assurance that help and support will be available through this rapidly evolving situation.

The range of supports include;<ul><li>A €200m Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) Working Capital scheme for eligible businesses impacted by COVID-19. Loans of up to €1.5m will be available at reduced rates, with up to the first €500,000 unsecured. Applications can be made through the SBCI website.</li><li>A €200m Package for Enterprise Supports including a Rescue and Restructuring Scheme available through Enterprise Ireland for vulnerable but viable firms that need to restructure or transform their business. </li><li>The maximum loan available from MicroFinance Ireland will be increased from €25,000 to €50,000 as an immediate measure to specifically deal with exceptional circumstances that micro-enterprises – (sole traders and firms with up to 9 employees) - are facing. Applications can be made through the MFI website or through your local LEO.</li><li>The Credit Guarantee Scheme will be available to COVID-19 impacted firms through the Pillar Banks. Loans of up to €1m will be available at terms of up to 7 years. </li></ul>The following supports are for firms experiencing trading difficulties and short-term shocks:<ul><li>The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation will provide a joint First Responder support service through the Intreo Offices and development agencies, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland in each region to provide tailored supports for impacted firms, with objective of avoiding mass lay-offs and buying time for firms to work through the short-term disruptions.</li><li>Firms that need to reduce hours or days worked can avail of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection Short Term Work Support by contacting their local Intreo Office, see gov.ie/en/service/c20e1b-short-time-work-support.</li><li>The full range of Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Local Enterprise Office and Údarás na Gaeltachta grant supports will be available to firms to help with strategies to innovate, diversify markets and supply chains and to improve competitiveness. </li></ul>A Finance in Focus grant of €7,200 will be available to Enterprise Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta clients that want to access consultancy support to undertake immediate finance reviews.In addition, Local Enterprise Offices in every county will be providing vouchers from €2,500 up to €10,000 (with 50:50 match funding) to support business continuity preparedness, innovation and productivity. I encourage businesses to take advantage of these supports.”The Minister also welcomed the package of reforms for sick pay, illness benefit and supplementary benefit that is designed to ensure that employees and the self-employed can abide by medical advice to self-isolate where appropriate.To be eligible for the SBCI COVID19 Working Capital Scheme, businesses must satisfy one of the COVID 19 criteria and one of the innovation criteria set out for the scheme. There is a broad suite of innovation criteria and this offers a wide range of opportunity for businesses to engage in the scheme. Guidelines will be provided on the SBCI website to help businesses determine if they are eligible for the scheme.The Department through its development agencies will continue to provide information support and to business on Continuity Planning Checklist, which includes a practical checklist as well as links to relevant COVID-19 advice developed in conjunction with the HSE and Department of Health.Enterprise Ireland will provide an online portal of advice and business continuity tools and webinars for business.Enterprise Ireland with the Local Enterprise Offices will activate advisory clinics and mentoring support for impacted firms.DEASP and the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) are coordinating information for employees and employers on their rights and responsibilities in the case of employees being absent from work due to isolation and/or infection.Minister Humphreys is engaging with business representative bodies through the Enterprise Forum on COVID-19, which met today.The Department is leading across government and with key stakeholders to ensure continuity of food supply and Minister Humphreys is chairing a forum of large retail multiples, retail representative bodies and grocery distributors and food manufacturers.The Department is working with the European Commission on additional changes to State Aid de minimis rules that may be required to ensure the enterprise development agencies can respond effectively.Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation (DBEI)The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation (DBEI) plays a key role in implementing the Government’s policies of stimulating the productive capacity of the economy and creating an environment which supports job creation and maintenance. The Department has lead responsibility for Irish policy on global trade and inward investment and a remit to promote fair competition in the marketplace, protect consumers and safeguard workers.In the meantime if you need support or help finding temporary or replacement staff please call JobAlert.ie on 01 8495003 we will help you in whatever way we can.More information available: <a href="https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/March/10032020.html">https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/March/10032020.html</a>

Package of supports for businesses impacted by COVID-19

BREAKING NEWS! Covid-19 Sick Pay &amp; Support for Small Business Owners in Ireland!

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has just announced emergency legislation to cover Covid-19 issues; These include; Emergency sick pay, if needed for people who have to quarantine for 2 weeks if showing symptoms. 

 They will waive the normal conditions that apply i.e. so it will be paid immediately when required. The amount paid will be raised to €305 a week + an additional amount for dependents. Self-employed people will also be eligible.

A fund will also be approved to support small businesses that are affected by Covid-19 issues - this will come from a fund that was set aside for Brexit issues.
Some €430m in extra funds has been agreed for the HSE while two tranches of €200m will be transferred across from Brexit emergency funds to fight the virus and help businesses.A total package €3bn is being set aside, Mr Varadkar said, as he also said the government had the capacity to borrow.
More to be announced.Yesterday it was reported that;The issue of sick pay for workers affected by Covid-19 would be discussed today when the Cabinet Sub-Committee chaired by the Taoiseach convened. On Friday, government officials met representatives of employers and unions to discuss possible mechanisms to ensure income support for workers who either contract the virus or are forced the self-isolate for up to 14 days on a precautionary basis.It is feared that workers who do not have contractual sick pay entitlements and who cannot afford loss of income will refuse to take time off, and will risk spreading the virus by presenting for work while ill or infected. Following Friday&#39;s consultation no further follow-up meetings with those bodies took place over the weekend, but the issue has been described as a &quot;key priority&quot;.According to one source who attended Friday&#39;s meeting, there was general consensus that the first priority was to make sure employees got paid.The source said the second key issue was how to facilitate, while the third was how to afford it. Another complicating factor mentioned by several sources is that some possible mechanisms to permit financial transfers to workers could require legislation in order to enable them - and that would be difficult and slow particularly given the current lack of a government.The Cabinet Sub-Committee is also expected to receive a comprehensive briefing on &quot;necessary public health responses&quot; as well as advice on &quot;mitigations and contingencies&quot; for various sectors. Related reading: <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/coronavirus-vaccine-volunteers-offered-3-500-to-be-infected-with-">Coronavirus vaccine: Volunteers offered £3,500 to be infected with the bug
</a>

Covid-19 Sick Pay & Support for Small Business Owners

London coronavirus: The East London lab where volunteers will be infected with virus to find a vaccine.They&#39;ll reportedly be paid £3,500 for the risk.Brave volunteers can now sign up to take part in a clinical trial where they&#39;ll be infected with a strain of coronavirus in a global effort to find a vaccine.According to reports, they&#39;ll get paid £3,500 to spend two weeks in quarantine, which might sound tempting at first, but they won&#39;t be allowed physical contact with the outside world.The unit, based in East London, will test up to 24 people at a time with the aim to find a vaccine by next winter, to help protect the elderly and those with underlying health problems in &#39;flu season&#39;.Volunteers will be kept in a unit at Queen Mary BioEnterprises Innovation Centre in Whitechapel after being infected with two common strains of coronavirus, 0C43 and 229E, which cause only a mild respiratory illness. These are different to the Covid-19 coronavirus which is currently sweeping the world.The idea is to allow researchers and pharmaceuticals firms to test the efficacy of new viruses and antiviral medications in a safe environment.The guinea pigs will feel the symptoms of a cough or a cold, which would model those of Covid-19, and it&#39;s thought that any treatment used against these viruses successfully could work in the real world too. Before being selected volunteers will be quizzed on their medical history and undergo blood, urine and cardiac tests. Participants will visit the lab to be inoculated two weeks before going into isolation for 14 days.Nurses and doctors will enter the room for regular nasal swabs, blood tests and to collect any dirty tissues (which are later weighed to measure their “viral load”) and will be required to wear protective clothing and ventilators. During those two weeks, participants will be unable to exercise or have any physical contact with other people - even the food they eat will be tightly controlled.The most effective drugs and new or existing vaccines will then be fast-tracked into real-world testing against Covid-19.Those interested in joining the global fight can find out more on this website <a href="https://flucamp.com/">FluCamp.com.</a>

Coronavirus vaccine: Volunteers offered £3,500 to be infected with the bug

<h2>With the threat of disruption to workplaces in light of the Covid-19 situation, it’s an ever increasing possibility that more and more companies who can, may be required to ask employees to work from home.</h2>For example, Google instructed the majority of their 8,000 staff and contractors working for Google in Ireland to continue working from home today, as it’s understood that there may be concerns whether an employee who has been showing flu-like symptoms has Covid-19 or not. The company says it’s “not yet clear how long the &#39;working from home&#39; policy will remain in place. Twitter staff across the world have also been asked to work from home in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Online recruiter, Indeed, have also recently told their 1,000 staff not to come into the Dublin offices due to concerns that a staff member may have been exposed to the coronavirus. Though, working remotely is a reality for a lot of workers in Ireland regardless of the Covid-19 issue. One of the largest HR and employment surveys in Ireland (The Sigmar EY 2020 Talent Leader Pulse Survey) confirmed that the flexi-workforce now makes up 21 per cent of the total workforce and it’s a growing space that may affect all managers in the future.So what techniques work when managing remote workers?1. EngagementIt’s important that managers continue to connect with remote workers, as if they were in the building to ensure that they don’t feed disconnected or disadvantaged. Daily chats and general communications will help, and modern technology such as Skype and social networking apps will facilitate when it comes to checking in, updating and remaining connected with the wider team. 2. Team CollaborationRemote workers also need to feel a professional connection through team collaboration with their colleagues and organisation. It’s important that they are involved in brainstorming, official team meetings and where applicable, decision making. Again, this can be done via video link or conference calls. It’s important that all workers are involved in decision making that involves them and their team – not only is this good for moral and engagement, but it’s also important for the organisation - so they don’t miss out on valuable inputs. 3. ProductivityThere’s no doubt that flexible working can give more freedom to workers and it can also be extremely distracting. Boundaries between work and personal life can blur in this instance.There’s always going to be employees that will fully invest themselves when required to work from home, while others could find themselves in hot water if they are easily distracted or just take the piss. Having a clear understanding of what’s expected as in tasks and deadlines etc., will help. Being transparent about who’s doing what, when and with clear deadlines, can help keep things on track for everyone. A transparent team culture increases trust and will hopefully keep everybody engaged and focussed on their individual and team goals. A great manager will ensure that everyone pulls their weight with regular check-ins. HR backup may be required for those who step out of line. 4. Different EmployeesThere will be different personalities in the organisation and this should be taken into consideration when it comes to home working. Task oriented and introverted loners are believed to make excellent stay at home employees. But, it must also take into consideration that the chatty employees regularly spend a lot of time in the office doing non work related stuff, so if they are working from home there could also be less distractions and they may actually get more done.  5. Monitoring ResultsRemember, there’s a fine line between big brother and reasonable monitoring. If you&#39;re a manager and you&#39;re monitoring output – actual work done, targets achieved, results etc., this has to be a much healthier way of monitoring, rather than tracking every keystroke. There&#39;s nothing more morale destroying than an employee feeling that you don’t trust them, particularly when they know they are putting the work in. 6. Health and SafetyAn employer has a duty of care towards all employees and this includes staff who are working from home. Strictly speaking this means that an employer should carry out a risk assessment of the employee’s home office space to ensure that it complies with duty of care. In the situation regarding Covid-19 I don’t think that companies will be held responsible, if they cannot do this for every employee right now, but it is something to remember none the less. A communication regarding health and safety may suffice. 7. Data ProtectionIt’s important that employers consider GDPR Regulations when it comes to employees working from home. Breaches can appear in various ways including loss of physical data in transit, accidental or deliberately leaking personal data. Employers can be held liable for the actions of its’ employees regardless of motive. It’s vital to remove the risks and also have a data protection policy in place with on-going training for staff.  So, with the current Covid-19 risk, employers may be forced to send workers home and require them to actually work remotely. It is therefore useful for employers to at least explore this option now and look at the possibilities of doing it, whilst reviewing how a forced closure would impact the business.Employers should also look at the value that working from home options may bring them in normal circumstances. For example flexible working options could help to retain staff, particularly for working parents or people who live in isolated locations. Employers should also be aware though, that if an employee works from home for an extended period, that the right to work from home could become an implied term of their contract of employment through custom and practice and they could have future rights in this regard. Stay safe everyone

So how are remote workers managed in the event of a forced closure?

Pamela Doyle

McDonald&#39;s employee with Down Syndrome retires after serving smiles and fries for 32 years
For 32 years, he spread smiles and joy to customers at a McDonald&#39;s outlet and his retirement at the age of 50 marked the end of an era for his community.Among society&#39;s many misconceptions about people born with Down Syndrome, the most prominent one is the belief that such individuals are unable to lead a fulfilling independent life. Thankfully, things are a lot better today with many setting the record straight on just how much they can achieve on their own. As with everything that challenges widespread beliefs, this wouldn&#39;t have been possible without the pioneers who broke through the glass ceiling at a time when everyone told them it wasn&#39;t possible. Russell O&#39; Grady is one such pioneer who, with his determination to strike out on his own, became an inspiration to all.For 32 years, Russell spread smiles and joy to customers at a McDonald&#39;s outlet in Sydney, Australia. Born with Down Syndrome, he first donned the chain&#39;s uniform in 1986 as a zealous 18-year-old looking to rack up work experience. According to a report by the Independent, Russell came across the opportunity through Jobsupport — an Australian government initiative to help those with intellectual difficulties find paid jobs. His employers at the restaurant at Northmead, Greater Western Sydney, were so impressed by his commitment and work ethic that they soon offered him a permanent role at the establishment.Russell went on to spend a little over three decades at the restaurant, packing party boxes, cleaning, and serving customers, becoming one of the most iconic people at the outlet next to Ronald McDonald. Such was his presence the establishment that many would frequent the branch just to meet him. According to Daily Mail, he&#39;s even been dubbed the &quot;best-known person in Northmead.&quot; Last December marked the end of an era as Russell hung up his uniform and officially retired from his post.&quot;We&#39;ve got regular customers who come in to see Russell on Thursday and Friday, and the staff look after him, so we&#39;re going to miss him,&quot; said McDonald&#39;s supervisor Courtney Purcell. In an email to CTV News, the assistant manager of JobSupport, Wynn Visser said that Russell&#39;s impact on his community has been exceptional. &quot;Everybody knows him and they really love him because he always stops to shake hands and say &#39;Hi&#39; to everyone he knows. He has only told me he will miss seeing his friends at work (who are mainly young girls who make a fuss of him), his boss and all the people who call in to see him,&quot; she said.Visser revealed that the 50-year-old&#39;s decision to retire was mainly due to concerns regarding health concerns that come with his age. &quot;As his family, our objective is to find him new activities to keep him both healthy and active in his community,&quot; she said. Russell plans to spend his retirement socializing with friends at the gym, having dog therapy, and indulging in his favorite hobby of ten-pin bowling at the Northmead Bowling Club. &quot;Russell’s tenure is truly remarkable,&quot; Visser added.
Russell&#39;s brother Lindsey said that their family is incredibly proud of him for his dedication to work. &quot;He&#39;s kind of blase about it but loves his work very much. He&#39;s pretty cheeky sometimes. He&#39;s my big brother and he keeps me in line,&quot; he said. The iconic McDonald&#39;s employee&#39;s father Geoff O&#39;Grady previously revealed that his son would often get stopped for handshakes by people on the street. &quot;He&#39;s very affectionate, dearly loved and appreciated, to such an extent that we just don&#39;t believe it,&quot; he said. Mr. O&#39;Grady also stated that having a job changed Russell&#39;s outlook on life. &quot;Somebody said to him &#39;are you handicapped?&#39; and his answer was &#39;I used to be when I went to school, but now I work at McDonald&#39;s.&#39;&quot;

McDonald's employee with Down Syndrome retires after 32 years

The upcoming Jobs Fair will see top local employers with a range of jobs on offer available to meet with and talk to job seekers about the vacancies they have on offer and what they are looking for in potential candidates, as well as how to apply.The event runs on Thursday 5th March from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Temperance Hall, Longford.This event is run as part of Local Enterprise Week and Jobs Week and is hosted by Longford Local Enterprise Office in association with Longford INTREO.<a href="https://bit.ly/2wSu36Y">Register for the jobs fair here.</a><a href="https://bit.ly/2wSu36Y"></a>We look forward to seeing you there!

Register today for the Longford Jobs Fair - Thursday 5th of March 2020

Increasing the number of followers on your LinkedIn Company Page is one of the most valuable steps you can take to build your company brand and bring in new business. Here are some quick actionable tips to help you quickly achieve a larger following:1. Company Page Set UpMake sure your company page has the following items completely filled out:<ul><li>Logo</li><li>Company description</li><li>Website URL</li><li>Company size</li><li>Industry</li><li>Company type</li><li>Location</li></ul>2. ContentPost content daily related to your industry.Content ideas:<ul><li>Top 10 tips</li><li>Industry News</li><li>Quotes</li><li>Infographics</li><li>Cheatsheets</li><li>Questions</li><li>Step by step guides</li><li>Slides/PowerPoint Presentation (Can be uploaded directly to LinkedIn)</li></ul>The LinkedIn algorithm favours content that keeps users on their platform. Images, tips and articles are all great ways to please the algorithm and boost your company’s presence.On each post add 3 – 5 relevant hashtags. Hashtag ideas for your industry can be found by scrolling down to the hashtags section <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/mynetwork/">here.</a> 3. Engagement Increase visibility by engaging!Increased engagement on LinkedIn results in the algorithm raising your profile – allowing you and your company to be found by potential customers/collaborators.<ul><li>Like and comment on posts that interest you. Try your best to write insightful comments rather than two or three words on a post</li><li>Game the LinkedIn algorithm by liking your own comment (and other people’s comments too!)</li><li>If the opportunity arises, tag relevant people/companies in your post</li></ul>Consistency is key. Spend a few minutes every day doing the above actions.Encourage your colleagues to engage with company posts immediately Research on the LinkedIn platform has found that the quicker people like and comment on a post that has just been published – the more important the content is in the eyes of the LinkedIn algorithm, which results in more visibility for your content! You could even make a game out of it. Give recognition to those employees you are particularly active on your company&#39;s LinkedIn content. On each post It’s important that they LIKE, COMMENT &amp; SHARE, it’s a bonus if they have time to go back later and like other comments on the post, it will help to increase engagement and will please the algorithm. Encourage your Employees / Colleagues to update their Linkedin profiles in line with your company page  Each employee should include a tag line/job title that explains what they do at the company. In the work experience section of the employee profile, ensure that they include an intro that’s relevant to the company – along with details about their role at the company and a call to action at the end.  4. How to Maximise Your Company Page Following LinkedIn recently added a feature that allows users to invite their connections to follow their company page.This means that the more connections you have the more people you can invite to follow your company page. What you need to do is max out your new connections daily. Make meaningful new connections - people who are in your industry, potential customers or collaborators so that you will never run out of connections to invite.How to find these people to connect in with:<ul><li>Go to the LinkedIn search bar</li><li>Change the location filter to Ireland (If you are trading abroad you can select the country you wish to target)</li><li>On the connections filter, leave the 1st box unticked and tick the 2nd and 3rd boxes</li><li>In the search bar type in the job title of the person you would like to connect with – e.g. Director, Project Manager, etc., </li><li>Begin adding the relevant people to your network</li></ul>Next - Invite new connections to follow your pageLinkedIn allows you to invite 25 connections a day to follow your company page.How to send invites: Go to your company LinkedIn page and in the top right-hand corner you will see admin tools. Click here and within the dropdown menu, you will see the option to invite new connections. Bonus tip: The more admins you have assigned to your LinkedIn company page, the more invitations you can send out!

Quick Tips to Grow Your LinkedIn Company Page

Director & Chief Biscuit Dunker

Sean Breen

Jobs Week 2020

If you&#39;re an employer who&#39;s not getting a return on your Job Advertising investment- what can you do about it?Bottom line is - it shouldn&#39;t happen, but it does! Some employers are paying way over the odds to advertise job vacancies and a lot of the time, without even finding success?WHY? Well it could be because you’ve signed up to a yearly contract and you’re just uploading job ads on the same platform for the sake of it, hoping to get back something from your investment.Maybe you’re not really checking the analytics, you’ve a few Ads up on different platforms and you’re not really sure where the candidates are coming from? You could monitor the statistics and make sure that you spend your budget in places that bring you success.Then of course, it could be that your company has always used the same platforms for years. Old habits die hard and it can be difficult to implement changes if you’re new on the block or you have to go through a massive internal process to make a change on how budgets are spent.If you’re a business struggling with increasing costs though, you may be well aware of what job advertising is costing you and you may feel there’s no alternative. BUT THERE IS, you could be one of the savvy recruiters, who are trying out new platforms who are using the latest technology, who are monitoring results, saving money and filling vacancies quickly at the same time!So let’s look at the options and the cost of job advertising in Ireland. You could advertise on some of the jobs boards that have been around for quite a while, which according to US website www.betterteam.com will set you back between €765 and €1050 or you could try advertising with us, JobAlert.ie. While relatively new, we combine a jobs board with a location specific social media campaign for your job - you’ll pay just €149 for an Ad and if you are recruiting in volume you can get significant discounts. At JobAlert.ie, we’re helping businesses of all sizes to fill jobs quickly. Ads are hosted on our website and also shared across our social media platforms. We’re reaching both active and passive job seekers. By the latter term, we mean we are reaching out to candidates who may not actively be looking at job boards but if they see something in their Social Media news feeds they will apply.You just pay for Job Ads as you need them – we do the rest, we won’t tie you into unnecessary contracts – you just pay as you go.The model we use is simple. Like years ago, when employers used local newspaper classifieds to reach ‘readers’ with once off Ads, we do the same. Only difference is, we use online technology to reach future employees and their friends and family members who may tell them about the job. It really is that simple, but it works. We pride ourselves on the follow up service that we give our customers, once you try our service, you’ll come back over and over again. WHY? Because you&#39;ll find that we care - we do everything we can to fill that job. Don’t just take our word for it – read some recent testimonials <a href="http://bit.ly/2GuZxBd">HERE</a> It&#39;s a small investment for you to try our service - you’re very welcome to call our team on 00 353 1 8495003 to discuss your needs or to find out more and Advertise right away, <a href="http://bit.ly/2GtG5oy">CLICK HERE</a> We look forward to hearing from you.

Some employers are paying too much for Job Ads in Ireland without success

With talk of almost full employment and a Candidate-Driven job market in Ireland, what can you do to attract new hires?We’ve pulled together some tips to help you along the way.1. Sell your Company as a great place to work. If you focus on the benefits that you have to offer and highlight why your organisation is an excellent place to work, you will stand a much better chance of finding the right people. If you have any videos that give candidates an insight into your company or culture then include a link in your job spec. 2. Use Social Media to your Advantage. Even if you’re a small company, with a bit of creativity you could demonstrate and promote your friendly team atmosphere through nice group shots of nights out or just fun at work on your social media business pages. Candidates will find these shots when researching your organisation.3. Ensure that your job spec stands out from the crowd. Include as much relevant information as you can to attract as many good candidates as possible - benefits, salary, working hours, days, anything that will attract people to the role. Give the exact location of the job within your job advertisement. A generic location may result in candidates dropping off later in the hiring process. Also make sure that your Job Title makes sense. This sounds so obvious, but you’d be surprised how little some job ads contain.4. Have all your bases coveredYour job description should include the following elements:• Job title• Summary of role• Qualifications and skills required• Duties and responsibilities• Any special demands 5. Review flexible working options. Flexible working options are so attractive. Perhaps consider if two part-time workers could job share the role, look at start and finish times – is there any flexibility? Is there any work from home options, maybe even for some work duties? Are you just working the same hours and shifts because “it’s always been that way’ – maybe it’s time to change?6. Talk about the company’s futureInclude your plans for the future within your job description and how the role you’re recruiting for fits into them. Candidates want to know that they will be valued if they work at your company, so highlight the long term career development opportunities that are on the horizon. 7. Tighten up your recruitment process. You need to act fast. Having a professional and streamlined recruitment process will help. This is particularly important when in today’s market a great candidate will receive many offers. If you have two interviews or additional testing as part of your screening process, keep the candidate informed throughout.If you need help with making your job advertisement stand out from the crowd and attract the right candidates, the team at JobAlert.ie can help you. Here’s how we do it1) We provide full support with writing and reviewing a winning job specification2) We list your vacancy on our jobs board website - which receives half a million visits from job seekers every month. Your job will stay live on our website for up to 30 days.3) We share your job to our social media pages where we have 330,000+ active followers nationwide. We have social media job pages for every county in Ireland on Facebook &amp; Instagram.4) We assign a dedicated account manager to your recruitment campaign. The account manager will check-in with you on a weekly basis to see how each job is performing. If for any reason a job is underperforming with candidate applications, we have a number of measures in place to advance the exposure of your job to qualified candidates. We will ensure that everything is done to fill your job vacancy.To get started go <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/employers?utm_source=LeadsFebFacebook&amp;utm_medium=FacebookFeb&amp;utm_campaign=FBFeb">here</a>. If you have any questions give us a call on 01 849 5003 or drop us an email - <a href="mailto:info@jobalert.ie">info@jobalert.ie</a>. We are looking forward to helping you fill your job vacancy.

7 Ways to make your job advert stand out and attract the best people 

Finding ‘The One’, your ideal match, is really not that easy…..No we&#39;re not talking about finding your dream partner on this Valentine’s Day. We&#39;re talking about finding your IDEAL JOB. Work that you really love to wake up to every morning, that you’re passionate about, that truly makes you happy, excites you, lights up your heart and makes you feel content. So how can you tell when you’ve fallen totally out of love with your job and it’s time to move on? Are you feeling negative and tired all the time?Job unhappiness can affect your sleep, as your brain finds it hard to switch off. It’s a vicious circle though, as not getting enough rest can really affect your ability to see things clearly and may over emphasise your emotions. If you feel overwhelmed. Maybe you should talk to someone you trust, a professional career coach or a counsellor before you make any big decisions to move on. Constantly dreading work the next day?Life is too short to dread going to work every day. If it wasn’t always this way, maybe ask yourself what has changed? Have you just outgrown your role? If so, focussing on your own self-development may be the way forward. You could look at up-skilling, take up a part time course, or maybe have a chat with a Manager to see if you can work on a progression plan for yourself, that will help you move within the organisation. If this is not an option, it’s probably time to seek new pastures.  Are you making careless mistakes?Maybe your heart just isn’t in it? It could mean you’re disengaged and no longer committed to your position. Again you may need to review if progression within the organisation is an option, but you’ll have to buck up if you want to be considered for promotion, as making careless mistakes could get you in serious trouble and result in you missing out on future internal opportunities.  Are you working in a toxic environment?When you start a new job, it’s not always easy to research what the culture is really like unless it’s one of those award winning ‘Great Places to Work’. Taking on a new role regularly means taking chances, but if over time you realise you&#39;re caught in a toxic environment or have a toxic boss, what can you do? This situation can make your working life unbearable. You must consider if it’s possible to explore all means of resolution available to you. If there&#39;s a good HR team and processes in place to deal with these situations, it may be possible to escalate any concerns that you have and find a solution. You might find that you’re not the only affected person. If you try, but fail to resolve the issues, it’s probably time to move on. You are feeling physically (or mentally) unhealthyFrom time to time we all feel a bit overwhelmed or stressed. Even people who love their jobs can feel under pressure, particularly at busy times. However, if you feel that there’s a downward spiral in your overall health and your ability to concentrate, it could be far more serious. You should seek proper medical help or advice. You could also take time out and on your return to work maybe set smarter work / life boundaries. There’s no doubt about it, that like all relationships we go through the honeymoon period with work too. At the offset we may have been mis-lead or we could have misinterpreted things. Some interviewers paint a rosy picture when they’re trying to entice the ‘ideal’ candidate. Sometimes promises are made that just can’t be fulfilled? It’s also possible that you got caught on the rebound as you left your previous job and you didn’t fully research the new opportunity. Some would argue that you get from a job what you put in, so don’t throw the towel in too soon. Before you make any drastic changes you should really consider if it really is the job that’s to blame and not some other underlying issues that you’re just not dealing with. Let’s hope that you find true JOB LOVE really soon - if you&#39;re totally unsure of what kind of role you would love to be in we&#39;ve created the ultimate guide on how to find your passion and build a career around it, you can check it out <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-find-your-passion-and-build-a-career-around-it">here</a>.Happy Valentines too!

Finding 'The One' True Job

Are you:Interested in exploring IT-based apprenticeships? Why not try:IN-VEST 2An accredited pre-apprenticeship programme. Explore new apprenticeship opportunities and experience creative learning that can open up a career path in technology and other sectors.IN-VEST 2 is a pre-apprenticeship programme providing an introduction to:<ul><li>Software Development </li><li>Network Engineering </li><li>Web and Graphic Design</li><li>Project Development</li><li>Communication and Presentation Skills</li></ul>4 Weeks work experience and career planning included. **PLEASE NOTE: Participants may be eligible to receive a training allowance**This 18-week course will be starting in Finglas, Dublin in April 2020.HOW TO REGISTER:Info &amp; registration in the Ballymun Job Centre, Civic Centre, Dublin 9.For further information please contact the Ballymun Job Centre on 01 866 7000.By email:Emily Nelson: <a href="mailto:nelsone@bmunjob.ie">nelsone@bmunjob.ie </a>orMandy Creevy: <a href="mailto:creevym@bmunjob.ie">creevym@bmunjob.ie</a>

I.T Pre-Apprenticeship course starting in April 2020 | IN-VEST 2 

If you’re thinking of asking your boss to reduce your hours it’s important that you develop a plan that takes your employer’s needs into consideration. This will allow for a productive discussion and help you to achieve a mutually agreeable arrangement.
Open and honest discussionTry and be as open and honest as you can about why you need to change your working hours. It’s OK if you don’t want to get into too much detail – you can explain that it’s for personal reasons if you like.If it is something that you can discuss for example, you need the time to care for an a sick relative or to return to education etc., your boss may be more willing to help as they will have a clearer picture of your situation.Put yourself in your employer&#39;s shoesConsider the needs of your employer and develop a plan to compensate for the lost hours. 
Remember that this could be the first time anyone has requested a flexible working arrangement at the company. Make sure that you find out what your employer&#39;s particular concerns are, and try to suggest solutions which suit both of you.Important points to consider when putting your plan together:
• Will your company need to hire more staff or can tasks be distributed to other colleagues? 
• Can you start earlier in the morning to compensate for the lost hours?
• Does the business have peak and off-peak times? Perhaps offering to work during peak hours/days will help your case
• Flexi-time: Could you work more days but less hours?
• Is there an option to work from home? 
• Can you get your workload done in 30 hours instead of 40 hours?
• Does your employer think your work cannot be done part-time? If possible - make a case for why it can be done with reduced working hours
• Is this a temporary or permanent solution? Could you offer to work fewer hours for a trial period to prove that the new arrangement could work?• What is your timeline? Giving your boss an adequate amount of time to organise the new arrangement will help facilitate your request• What would your employer gain by agreeing to your request?For example:✅ A happier, less stressed employee ✅ A more productive team member✅ Higher morale✅ Retention of a skilled and experienced employeeSchedule a meeting Schedule a meeting with your manager once you have an explanation and contingency plan in place. Beforehand, it’s a good idea to email your boss regarding the matter so he/she has time to prepare. Being caught off guard may put your boss under stress and could increase the probability of a negative response. 
Be willing to negotiate with your boss to develop alternative solutions if he/she is unable to meet your initial request. A happy medium can be found through open and honest discussion. 
If you can present a solid argument to the company why working reduced hours would be a benefit to yourself and the company, you&#39;re more likely to be successful with your request. 
All the best with your master plan for a better work-life balance!

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