Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 December 2016
189. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the entitlements for a disability allowance or a disability benefit in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38208/16]
View answerThe person concerned is in receipt of illness benefit, formerly called disability benefit. This benefit is payable in respect of work incapacity where the person satisfies certain PRSI contribution conditions. The rate of payment is dependent on the person’s level of earnings in the contribution year governing the claim. The person concerned is being paid at the personal rate of €121.40 which reflects their average weekly earnings in the 2014 governing contribution year.
If the person concerned finds that their means are insufficient to meet their needs they may be eligible for assistance under the Supplementary Welfare Allowances Scheme. Application may be made to the Community Welfare Services at the local Intreo centre.
Disability Allowance is a means tested payment for persons with a disability which is expected to last for at least twelve months. Further details are on my department’s website www.welfare.ie.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
