Hi there,
I am currently unemployed. I live with my girlfriend but we do not share bank accounts or finances. I have lived abroad from Oct 2000 to Dec 2005 and therefore are not entitled to unemployment benefit. But because my girlfriend works I am entitled to the princely sum of 80 cents a week in unemployment assistance, as opposed to €165.80 if I were single, plus rent allowance and free medical. I am eagerly looking for work and just want what I think is my right while I find a job. I have paid tax and PRSI for 5 years before I left Ireland and will do so again once I get work.
What further annoyed me was the fact that for tax purposes we are considered single people and therefore are not entitled to the married couple tax bands. Surely this is unconstitutional or legally flawed in some way.
Your advice is very much appreciated.
Regards,
Dunster.