THE SOCIAL PROTECTION Minister, Leo Varadkar, has confirmed that the welfare Christmas bonus is set to be paid the week starting 28 November.

Some 1.2 million people will receive the extra money including jobseekers, lone parents, pensioners, people with disability and carers.

The funding equals 85% of the normal weekly welfare payment. Payments will range from €20 to €387.

Taking questions on proposed legislation, Varadkar also confirmed the €5 social welfare increase will be paid as early as possible in March.

He said the exact dates will be in the social welfare Bill, which goes to Cabinet next Tuesday and will be published either next Friday or the week after.