Jim Higgins
Question:151 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if persons who return to full time education having worked for a number of years are entitled to an allowance. [24386/01]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
To qualify for participation on the back to education allowance scheme operated by my Department, an applicant must be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment for at least six months – 156 days – and be at least 21 years of age – 18 years of age for people with disabilities or people who have been out of formal education for at least two years – immediately prior to commencing the first year of an approved course of study. It is not possible for a person to qualify for this scheme directly from employment.
Michael Ring
Question:152 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has not received a carer's allowance which was approved in August 2001. [24440/01]
The person concerned was awarded carer's allowance with effect from 2 August 2001 at the maximum weekly rate of £88.50, 112.37. Unfortunately, since the award, the person being cared for has died.
The person concerned will receive six weeks after death payment of carer's allowance. Arrears of allowance due from 2 August 2001 to 24 October 2001 have issued to the person concerned.
Under social welfare legislation, decisions in relation to claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role on regard to making such decisions.