Independent TD Denis Naughten says he believes more self-employed people will soon become eligible for Pandemic Unemployment Payments (PUP).
Mr Naughten, who is chair of the Dáil's Social Protection Committee, made the comments ahead of the Department of Social Protection's appearance at the committee later today.
The Department will face questions regarding several 'anomalies' with the scheme.
Taxi-drivers, musicians and artists are among those who say they are missing out on payments brought in to support workers during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Yesterday, it was confirmed that application for the PUP would remain open until March.
Speaking yesterday, Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys said the extended deadline would give people peace of mind.
“It means that people who, hopefully will be able to return to work in the coming weeks, will be able to do so without worrying that they might not be able to access PUP again if they need it."
Mr Naughten said he is hopeful that a similar peace of mind will soon also be available to self-employed people.
"I do believe it is feasible and I think the Minister is very open to trying to address anomalies, particularly barriers to ensuring that people have financial supports that they need and barriers for people returning to work.
"It is vitally important that those anomalies within the system are identified and are addressed and it's our intention to try and do that."
