Social Welfare Benefits

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 July 2012

Tuesday, 3 July 2012

Questions (329)

Sean Conlan

Question:

338 Deputy Seán Conlan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason persons who are made a ward of court are discriminated against when making a social welfare application on the basis that the assets, land they own, but have no control over, are prevented from obtaining any social welfare payment; if she has intention to rectify this injustice by amending the current rules and regulations which apply to these persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31826/12]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Joan Burton)

There is no question of discrimination against persons who are made a Ward of Court. A person who is a Ward of Court is treated in the same manner as any other claimant.

In calculating a person's possible entitlement to a means tested social assistance payment, account is taken of any cash income the person may have, together with the value of property and capital, apart from the family home.

The purpose of the means test is to ensure that resources are targeted most effectively for those who do not have social insurance cover and do not therefore qualify for social insurance payments.