Tony Gregory
Question:179 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will review the request of the persons (details supplied) in Dublin 1 for supplementary welfare assistance towards the cost of mortgage repayments and arrears.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme a weekly supplement can be paid towards rent and mortgage interest payments. Such supplements may be paid where the rent or mortgage interest exceeds £3.50 per week. As a general rule the supplement is calculated so that the person has, after payment of rent or mortgage interest, an income equal to the rate of supplementary welfare allowance less £3.50.
I understand from the Eastern Health Board, which is responsible for the administration of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme in the Dublin area, that the person concerned was refused a mortgage supplement as his income after mortgage interest payments, exceeds the appropriate level.
Assistance with arrears of mortgage payments can only be given in exceptional circumstances. The board has been asked to examine this question and to advise the applicants of the outcome.