Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2019
754. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the social protection schemes or measures that have sunset clauses; the annual cost of these measures; the dates in which these measures are set to expire; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29242/19]
View answerI am advised that the Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 10) (Assessment of Means) Regulations 2019 and the Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (No. 5) (Assessment of Means) Regulations 2019 are due to cease to have effect on 31 December 2019.
These Regulations provide that, for the purposes of certain means-tested schemes operated by my Department, the net cash value of meals, accommodation and related services provided by the Department of Justice and Equality will continue to be taken into account in the assessment of means of those who have been granted refugee status, subsidiary protection or leave to remain, or who have refugee status on arrival under UN resettlement programmes. There is no cost to the Department associated with the operation of the Regulations.
Officials in my Department are engaging with counterparts in the Department of Justice and Equality to assist that Department with the introduction of new arrangements which are expected to be in place by the end of the year.
Otherwise, there are currently no schemes or measures operated by my Department where a sunset clause is in effect.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
