Disability Allowance Applications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 May 2015

Tuesday, 19 May 2015

Questions (59)

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

59. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if backdated payments will be made in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she will investigate this case, as the person's means may have been calculated incorrectly for the period of suspension; if she will reinstate the entitlement for the period August 2012 to March 2014 as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19301/15]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection

The person in question was in receipt of disability allowance (DA) from 4 April 2012. Payment ceased with effect from 28 August 2012 as it was decided that her means, which were derived from her spouse’s employment, were in excess of the statutory limit for DA.

A new application was received from the person concerned on 28 February 2014 and was awarded with effect from 5 March 2014 based upon the circumstances of the person in question at that time. Limited backdating of DA may be considered in appropriate circumstances. If the person in question wishes to apply for the payment of DA to be back-dated, she should write to DA section setting out her reasons for the request and evidence of her eligibility for the earlier period and a decision will be made.