Sign in during gap between jobs?

Meathlass

My current work contract finishes at the end of August. I have a new job lined up but won't be starting until mid-late September.

Will I be able to sign on for JSB for those 2 - 3 weeks? I have no dependents.

mp22

Sign on on the first day you are out of work.

cerastes

On a similar note, I was offered part-time work, well zero hour, could I sign for the remainder of days I don't work or if none all of a week? Would I be entitled to any benefit on such an irregular pattern?
I had similar work in the past but never signed for days I didn't get work, can I backdate it and would I be eligible for benefit as a job seeker? I've been actively seeking work but was told I was ineligible not only for a payment but to be allowed to sign on due to being means tested.
Despite this and a long and continuous work history before being let go I seem not to have been eligible for state benefit or even to get courses like skillsnet or momentum, yet people who have been continiously unemployed seem to be completely eligible? I even know people entitled to courses, payment and they are allowed to work 20 hours a week!??

mp22

If you are signing on at present,and get a job you can claim for days you get no work its called casual unemployment.

http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/search/?q=casual%20unemployment