Laid-off workers who have been receiving unemployment benefits since March 24 are expected to receive their final pay this week.The scheme was initially planned for 12 weeks but was extended to 16. The Government has not yet said if there will be a further extension.Issued in two-week cycles, the emergency payments were offered in the face of unprecedented layoffs caused by Covid-19.Representatives of hard-hit sectors such as the hotel industry, where many remain off the job, have continued to push for an extension. This week’s payment cycle is expected to be the last for people who signed up when the scheme started in March.Workers who joined at a later date and remain out of work are still eligible for benefits up to $500 per week until they either regain employment or reach the end of their 16-week cycle.The Royal Gazette has lodged queries on the future of the programme with the Ministry of Labour.