Rory O'Hanlon
Question:26 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason age rather than school attended is included in the criteria for a back-to-school allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12071/96]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
This year, the back to school clothing and footwear scheme will be run on a different administrative basis compared to previous years in so far as the scheme is now paid on an age-related rather than a school-related basis. An allowance of £43 will be payable in respect of children from two to 11 years of age and an allowance of £58 will be payable in respect of qualified children from 12 to 22 years of age.
This change was necessary in order to facilitate the computerisation of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, the roll-out of which began this week and will take up to mid-1997 to complete.
Once computerised, the back to school clothing and footwear scheme can be administered more efficiently. From 1997, applications under the back to school clothing and footwear scheme will be processed on computer. Payments will be made in accordance with the age of the child, with higher payments made in respect of children aged 12 or over.
I have issued guidelines to the health boards that, in cases where a child under 12 years is attending post-primary school, steps should be taken to ensure that the higher rate is paid.