It is proposed to take Questions Nos. 229 and 232 together. The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on behalf of my Department by the health boards, provides assistance to eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs. In addition to a basic allowance, supplements may be given to assist with various needs, including rent, mortgage interest, dietary requirements and heating. Payments are also made in cases of exceptional and urgent needs where, in the opinion of the health board, the circumstances of a case so warrant. The number of recipients of basic supplementary welfare allowance and supplements for each of the past two years is as shown in the following tabular statement. The tables also provide details of unemployment assistance cases which were pending appeal. The figures relate to the position at the end of December in each case.
Recipient numbers of basic SWA and supplements at end of 2001