Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 June 2013
231. Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Social Protection if receipt of a UK winter fuel payment will have any effect on eligibility for fuel allowance here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28934/13]
View answerThe United Kingdom winter fuel payment is an annual tax-free payment made to eligible people to help towards their winter heating costs. It is a lump sum and in most cases is paid automatically, but some people need to claim. The total amount of winter fuel payment can vary from £100 - £300 sterling having regard to age and household composition. Most payments are made between mid- November and December in a given year. The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled that people living outside the UK may be paid the winter fuel payment where they can demonstrate a “genuine and sufficient link” to the UK’s social security system.
As I said in my reply of 8th May, 2013, the implications of this ECJ judgment are currently being examined, in particular the implications for eligibility for the fuel allowance in Ireland. The UK winter fuel allowance is contribution based and, as an entitlement has been established, then the UK would have first responsibility to pay the allowance. As the fuel allowance here is a means tested payment, which is paid on the basis that an applicant is unable to provide for his or her own heating needs, we would have to take account of the receipt of the UK payment in assessing eligibility. This would also be the case with other payments received from countries which impact on social welfare payments.
My officials have been in contact with the UK authorities to determine the number of people who are eligible for the UK payment. On receipt of that information the best mechanism for addressing this issue will be determined.
