Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Jun 1992

Vol. 420 No. 7

Written Answers. - Rent Supplements Eligibility.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

80 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will outline the method for assessing applicants for eligibility for rent supplements in the South Eastern Health Board area; and if the application of rent supplements differs between different health board areas.

Minister for Social Welfare (Mr. McCreevy)

Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, health boards may pay a weekly supplement towards the rent costs of persons whose means are insufficient to meet their needs. The supplement is calculated so that, after payment of rent, the recipient has an income equal to the rate of supplementary welfare allowance appropriate to his family size, less £3.50. This method of determining rent supplements applies in all health board areas.

In determining applications for rent supplements the health board must be satisfied that the rent payable is fair and reasonable for the particular property. It is also necessary for a board to establish that the accommodation is appropriate to the needs of the applicant. Differences in rent levels between or within health board areas may also affect the amount of supplement payable.