Kerry employers encouraged to apply for new wage subsidy scheme

Kerry employers are being encouraged to apply for the new wage subsidy scheme.

The government’s new Employment Wage Subsidy scheme, which came into effect overnight, replaces the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme.

Caroline McEnery, a HR expert with the HR Suite, says while businesses need support during this time, there are stricter criteria to the new scheme.

Businesses can apply if turnover is down by more than 30% over the period July-December, both monthly and overall, plus the top rate of payment is capped at €203 per week.

Ms McEnery says businesses which have taken on new or seasonal workers since July can apply for a back payment - however, time is of the essence.