Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 20 Feb 2003

Vol. 561 No. 6

Written Answers - Social Welfare Benefits.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

40 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork continues to be denied payment of arrears of child benefit to which this person is lawfully entitled in a situation where this person handed in an unemployment benefit book in Dublin in 1996 and where it appears that subsequently such benefit was fraudulently claimed in the UK; the investigations which have taken place here in relation to the matter; the report which has been obtained from the UK authorities in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4878/03]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan):

The person concerned applied for child benefit in respect of her four children when she came to reside in Ireland in 1996. She was asked to provide documentation confirming her entitlement to residency in this country. These documents were not produced until September 2002. The UK authorities have indicated that child benefit continued to be paid in this case until June 2002. They are investigating the matter and have indicated that they hope to have their inquiries finalised shortly. Payment of child benefit has been made from July 2002. The person's entitlement to payments under Irish legislation prior to that date will be reviewed when the results of these inquiries are received.

Question No. 41 answered with Question No. 8.

Question No. 42 answered with Question No. 9.