Disability Allowance Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 November 2018

Tuesday, 27 November 2018

Questions (553)

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

553. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the limit for means to qualify for disability allowance; if there is leeway particularly for a person that has an occupational pension having had to retire early due to a long-term illness; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48907/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection

Disability Allowance, DA, is a statutory means-tested payment and the provisions governing the assessment of means are set out in legislation. These provisions do not exempt monies received from an occupational pension from assessment.

When deciding on an application for DA, a deciding officer has no discretion regarding the application of this legislation.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the deputy.