08 March 2021

Falkland Islands Government extends Covid-19 financial support schemes

On Friday 5 March, ExCo approved the extension of the Job Retention Furlough Scheme and Unemployment Subsidy Scheme from March 31 2021 until 30 September 2021. This move is intended to support the continued growth and expansion of local businesses in the Falkland Islands, as well as align the end date for both schemes with government’s other principal business support schemes – the Business Grant Scheme and the Self Employed Income Supplement Scheme.

The Job Retention Furlough Scheme provides assistance if an employer is unable to operate or has limited or no work for the employee due to Covid-19. The Unemployment Subsidy Scheme is targeted at workers who are dismissed as a result of the pandemic.

MLA Mark Pollard, portfolio lead for Trade and Industry, said: “I’m very pleased that the government is able to continue providing this ongoing support for individuals and employers across the sector, as we continue to navigate the pandemic. The extension of both schemes will help to sustain our economy while we develop further plans for the future prosperity of the Islands beyond Covid-19.”

A process of programme review and strategic assessment will begin later this month in order to develop further recommendations in relation to the design and ongoing delivery of government support measures beyond 30 September 2021, taking into account the evolving global situation.