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It was also revealed today that 3,000 people this year have had a reduced rate applied to their social welfare payments for failing to engage with Intreo.
Over 1.3 million people in the State will benefit from a brand-new social welfare bonus this week.
Some 38,000 people in County Wicklow will this week reap the benefits from the first ever January bonus, as the cost-of-living support will be paid to the likes of Wicklow pensioners, carers, people with disabilities, lone parents and lone income families in the form of a double payment.
Some budget measures kicked in almost immediately, others take effect from today, while more still begin later in the year.
The Christmas Bonus is an extra payment for people who receive a long-term social welfare payment. Those who are eligible will see a 100 per cent boost.