Fianna Fáil Councillor Norma Moriarty has called on the government to clarify if people made unemployed as a result of business closures arising from the Coronavirus outbreak are eligible for the Home Care Tax Credit as well as the new pandemic unemployment payment.
Cllr. Moriarty explained, “I have been contacted by a number of people wondering if they can apply for the Home Carers Tax Credit as well as the new pandemic unemployment payment if they have lost their jobs and are now caring for their children at home.
“I have been speaking to people who have been laid off in the past few days because the businesses that they work for have been forced to close as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic. The situation is particularly stark in the main tourist areas, such as Killarney, which is taking a major hit.
“These people are now at home looking after their children and helping them with their schoolwork. In other circumstances, these parents could possibly qualify for the Home Carer Tax Credit – HK1.
“While I appreciate that the new COVID 19 pandemic unemployment payment has been set up for people who have been made redundant as a result of the virus, it’s unclear if parents can apply for the Home Carer Tax Credit as well. This would be a welcome financial tool for these families, in these uncertain times.
“I am calling on the Minister to clarify the government’s position on this issue so that families in Kerry and across the country will know where they stand”, concluded Cllr. Moriarty.
