Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 November 2012
387. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will state which parent is entitled to child benefit in a situation where the parents have joint custody of the child; and the basis on which the decision is made. [49968/12]
View answerChild benefit is a universal payment made to the parents/guardians of children. As provided for in social welfare legislation, payment is normally made to the mother or step-mother of the qualified child. Where the child does not live with their mother or step-mother, but lives with their father or step-father, payment may be made to them. In cases where the parents have joint custody of the child, the legislation provides that payment is made to the mother.
