ISME says higher earners have paid "huge amounts" in social insurance.
The group, representing small and medium sized firms, says employees who lose their jobs should be entitled to a State payment of up to 80% of their previous earnings, even if they make more than €100,000 a year.
Government ministers are due to consider proposals before Christmas which could increase jobseekers' payments in-line with someone's income.
The current maximum rate available is €280 a week.
But CEO of ISME, Neil McDonnell, says higher earners have contributed more in PRSI payments and should therefore be entitled to higher welfare payments when they need them:
