Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 4

Written Answers. - Income Support for Farmers or Self-Employed.

Theresa Ahearn

Question:

236 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Social Welfare if there is any income supplement available to the self-employed or farmers who are in severe financial difficulties; as they are not eligible for family income supplement; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Mr. McCreevy)

Income support from my Department is available to farmers and self-employed persons through the means-tested Unemployment Assistance scheme.

In determining the income of smallholder and self-employed the amount of Unemployment Assistance payable is based on the person's means. In assessing means, account is taken of the net income which the applicant may reasonably expect to receive in the year from the date of the claim. That assessment may be based on income actually received during the year immediately preceding the date of claim. Allowance is made for expenses incurred in earning that income.