Social Welfare Benefits Applications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 November 2018

Tuesday, 20 November 2018

Questions (606)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

606. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if an application by a person (details supplied) for a back payment for a utility will be re-examined in view of the fact that they had not been made aware of the necessity to notify her Department when switching suppliers; the way in which this condition of the household benefits package is made known to those in receipt of the payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47756/18]

Written answers

Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection

Under the Household Benefits (HHB) scheme, the person concerned was in receipt of a Gas Allowance up to 6 March 2018 at which time they changed utility provider, causing the allowance to be suspended. The Department was notified of the change on 8 October 2018.

The HHB claim of the person concerned has been reviewed and they have been re-awarded the Gas Allowance with effect from 7 March 2018.  Arrears due to the person will be paid on the 4 December 2018.

I hope that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.