Question NW140 to the Minister of Employment and Labour
24 February 2021 - NW140
Cardo, Dr MJ to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
Given the forecast by economists that the continuation of the adjusted Level 3 lockdown restrictions could result in a further 1,4 million job losses, and given that the Unemployment Insurance Fund’s COVID-19 TERS scheme came to an end on 15 October 2020, what (a) steps is his department taking to prevent job losses on a massive scale and (b) is his department doing to provide income support to those persons who cannot work because of the adjusted Level 3 lockdown restrictions?
Reply:
a) The COVID-19 TERS benefit was extended until 15 March 2021. However, through the special COVID-19 TERS benefit government is supporting some employers to continue operating their businesses, whilst not having to pay wages during the period of decreased economic activity, thus preventing job losses.
Furthermore, employees that have to work reduced working time or have been laid off temporarily can apply for UIF-benefits under section 12(1)(b) for income replacement.
b) The following contribution was made to the economy since March 2020 to 10 February 2021
- 13 468 043 beneficiaries received payments to the value of R57 488 330 825 in terms of the COVID-19 TERS benefit scheme
- 1 161 059 employers applied for the above benefit on behalf of their employees.
In addition, a further R13 754 711 897 was paid in terms of unemployment and other statutory benefits to a further 2 445 665 beneficiaries.