Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 October 2015
189. Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) can be assisted with training expenses for a new job; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34234/15]
View answerThe supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA) is designed to provide immediate and flexible assistance for those in need who do not qualify for payment under other State schemes. Apart from the excluded categories, anyone in the State who satisfies a habitual residence condition and a means test, has registered for employment, unless they have a physical or mental disability, and can prove unemployment, or anyone who is awaiting the outcome of a claim or an appeal for a primary social welfare payment, may qualify for SWA.
A number of client categories are specifically excluded in legislation from receiving assistance under the SWA scheme. These include people in full-time work and people in full-time education. Where a person has commenced employment and is awaiting wages, basic SWA can be paid up to a maximum period of 30 days. Any person who considers they may have an entitlement to a payment under the SWA scheme should contact the Department’s Community Welfare Service in order that their circumstances can be fully investigated.
Policy in relation to payments made to trainee Gardaí is a matter for the Department of Justice and Equality.
