The number of people sanctioned on jobseeker's allowance is expected to double this year.

New figures from the Department of Social Protection reported in the Irish Times show nearly nine thousand recipients had payment reductions imposed at the end of October, nearly double of last year.

Payment reductions occur if a jobseeker fails to engage with employment services or refuses an offer of employment.

Penalties can see the allowance reduce from €232 to €188.

Under a new plan launched by the Government after Budget 25, unemployed people will be fined €90 per week if they do not engage with the Department of Social Protection.

The new fine is nearly double the current €44 a week penalty that was first introduced in 2011.

The fine was reportedly increased because Ireland is close to full employment with many employers seeking extra staff.