Out of work for 2 and a half years and claimed no dole.

Made reduntant and out of work for 2 and a half years.
Didn't want to go on dole as I thought I would find suitable employment.

I didn't.

Had been working in same job for 17 years and before that I had been on dole and decided if I could help it I would not go that road again.

However...No work apart from a little part time here and there,savings have diminished rapidly,and other half is insisting I sign on.
I still don't want to.

I imagine at this stage some questions would be raised.
Still have some savings so I'm wondering...Would I have any entitlement?

Thanks in advance.

Depends and soome people might be better able to advise you than I. For sure you are entitled but questions will be asked how you managed financially till now and as you say savings etc used up. The payments are bsed on Nat Insure contributions for a prior year and with 2.5 years now gone, you will be applying for Job Seekers Allowance. Just more forms really as far as I can see and once you are genuine case, then you have no worries. see www.welfare.ie and citizens advice and also threads on this site as well under welfare. Good luck.
You can also claim for tax back as well, going back 4 years.

"However...No work apart from a little part time here and there,savings have diminished rapidly,and other half is insisting I sign on.
I still don't want to."

There's absolutely nothing to be ashamed about it. You've been working hard before for 17 years and paying social insurance before, now you're just collecting on the insurance you paid for.

christie said:

Had been working in same job for 17 years and before that I had been on dole and decided if I could help it I would not go that road again.

Click to expand...

I cant understand this attitude you pay prsi while youre employed youre just using the safety net of the welfare state why cut off your nose...??

Thank you all for your help

It would be great if they backdated you, just wondering why did you not sign on to what you where entitled to.

I decided to take it easy for a bit and then get another job...I didn't expect to be out of work for so long to be honest.