Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 March 2012
262 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Social Protection if her attention has been brought to the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will review this case and ensure that this person’s labour market rights are upheld and their payments are processed accordingly. [12436/12]
View answerAn application for supplementary welfare allowance by the person concerned in August 2011 was disallowed as it was determined that she did not satisfy the habitual residence condition. The decision was upheld on appeal by the social welfare appeals office.
263 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding school costs (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12442/12]
View answerThe back to school clothing and footwear allowance scheme provides a one-off payment to eligible families to assist with the cost of uniforms and footwear for children going to school. In 2011, over 196,000 individuals received a back to school clothing and footwear allowance payment in respect of some 384,000 children at a cost of almost €91m.
A means test is applied to the scheme to ensure that limited resources are directed to those in greatest need ensuring maximum value for money. The BSCFA scheme is an important support for parents at a time of particular financial strain and assists with the clothing and footwear costs associated with returning to school. While the Department does not provide funding toward the costs of computers or school books I am aware that the Department of Education and Skills operate a book grant scheme for students in State primary and post-primary schools. The scheme is mainly aimed at pupils from low-income families and families experiencing financial hardship and is administered in each school by the school Principal.
