Today is the last day that people can apply to receive the Pandemic Unemployment Payment, with the scheme shut to new entrants from tomorrow onwards.
It was due to close to new registrations last week, but following the decision by the Government to delay the resumption of indoor hospitality, it was extended for a further seven days.
After today, it will no longer be possible to apply for the scheme, which was introduced last year to support those who had suddenly lost their jobs due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
At the peak of the crisis in May of last year, 598,000 people were in receipt of the payment, but this week the Department of Social Protection said 221,000 will receive it.