John Paul O’Shea, Fine Gael TD for Cork North West, has raised concerns in Dáil Éireann regarding the number of people currently in receipt of Jobseeker’s payments across Cork.
Deputy O’Shea, who served as a councillor for the Kanturk/Mallow Municipal District on Cork County Council from 2009 to 2024 and was Mayor of County Cork in 2015/2016, brought the matter to the attention of the Minister for Social Protection earlier today.
According to figures referenced in the Dáil, 12,100 people in Cork were in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Benefit as of January 2026. Of these, 2,700 were registered across the Mallow, Newmarket, Macroom and Kilmallock Intreo areas.
Speaking following his contribution, Deputy O’Shea said he was particularly concerned about the number of young people relying on unemployment supports.
“At a time when we have significant job opportunities out there, it worries me greatly to see so many young people on Jobseeker’s payments,” he said.
The Cork North West TD said he is committed to working closely with Intreo offices across the region to ensure those in receipt of payments are supported in returning to the workforce or accessing further education, training and upskilling opportunities.
“It is good for the mind and the soul to have a routine and for people to contribute to society,” he added, noting that his office is available to assist anyone seeking guidance on employment supports.
