Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2024
210. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the basis on which a disability allowance was reduced in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22312/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDisability Allowance (DA) is a weekly benefit for eligible individuals with a disability expected to last over a year, subject to medical assessment, means testing, and Habitual Residency conditions.
The Department approved a DA application for this individual on 10 August 2022, granting the maximum personal rate and additional payment for qualified child from the same date.
As previously advised, following a review of the claim on foot of additional information received, the person concerned was asked on 5 March 2024 to complete a household composition form and to verify her means. The information returned to the Department included details of maintenance payments.
The DA means assessment determines that half the weekly maintenance received should be attributed as means on a DA claim. The means assessment in this instance is based on the court order for maintenance provided as part of the review. Consequently, the weekly DA rate has been adjusted to €297.50 beginning 15 May 2024. The person was informed of this change on 23 April 2024.
This assessment is in line with legislative provisions on assessing means from maintenance. Future legislative amendments concerning child maintenance disregards will prompt another review of this matter.
This case has now been referred to a Social Welfare Inspector (SWI) for fresh means assessment, to establish any discrepancies between the information provided and the income being received. The weekly rate payable will be reassessed upon receipt of the SWI report.
The person concerned will be notified directly of the outcome.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
