Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 November 2015
63. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if a recipient of rent supplement may continue to receive the payment where that person owns a property in another area that is not of habitable condition; if so, the evidence the recipient needs to provide to her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38703/15]
View answerRent supplement plays a vital role in housing families and individuals, with the scheme currently supporting approximately 63,000 people at a cost of over €298 million in 2015.
Rent supplement is a statutory means tested scheme which is payable at differentiated rates of payment taking into account the applicant’s means and their family’s accommodation requirements. The means assessment for rent supplement includes a capital assessment of any properties owned outside the family home. The condition of the property would be taken into account in its valuation.
The combination of the means test and awarding differentiated rates of payment is premised on ensuring that social welfare payments are paid to those most in need.
