Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 June 2016
130. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if and when he will issue a payment to a person (details supplied) under the exceptional needs payments scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16258/16]
View answerPQ 12464 refers. The person concerned made an application towards payment for a gas central heating system installation in April 2016. Upon assessment of the application and supporting documentation the deciding officer deemed that the person concerned was in a position to provide for the cost of this installation from her own resources and the application was refused.
This case was reviewed and the person concerned has been advised by letter that the review of the decision to refuse her application for an ENP upheld the original decision on the basis that the heating works required were foreseen.
The original decision and review took into consideration that the person concerned is living in the house concerned rent and mortgage free for a number of years; that her weekly income is above the Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) rate for her family size and includes a weekly maintenance payment of €100 which was not declared on her application form. In addition, it transpires that the house is owned by her and two siblings who would each have a liability for repairs to the house.
The person concerned was further advised to make an application for repair work on her current heating system which would be considered as an unforeseen expense. An application form was issued on 01/06/2016. When received, the application will be examined and a decision issued as soon as possible.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
