Eric J. Byrne
Question:79. Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Minister for Social Protection the entitlements available to a person as a single, separated parent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47239/13]
View answerDáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 November 2013
79. Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Minister for Social Protection the entitlements available to a person as a single, separated parent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47239/13]
View answerIn addition to child benefit, there are a number of social insurance and social assistance payments for which a single separated parent may qualify, depending on their circumstances.
One-parent family payment may be payable, subject to a means assessment, to a parent with a qualified child or children where the person is parenting alone. Family income supplement may be payable to a person with a qualified child or children if that person is working at least 19 hours per week and where their income is within the relevant threshold, which is dependent on the family size.
Jobseeker’s benefit, which is a social insurance based scheme, or jobseeker’s allowance, which is subject to a means assessment, may be payable where an unemployed or part-time person is seeking full-time work.
Applications for one-parent family payment or jobseeker's payments may be made through the Department’s local office network, where all application forms can be accessed. Applications for family income supplement should be forwarded to the Department’s Longford office. Application forms can also be accessed on the Department’s website www.welfare.ie .