Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
836. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if recipients of the pandemic unemployment payment will be eligible for other welfare supports such as rent allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12102/20]
View answerRent supplement continues to play a key role in supporting families and individuals in private rented accommodation, with the scheme currently supporting approximately 21,150 recipients.
Rent Supplement is a means-tested payment and is available as a short-term income support to those in the private rented sector. In view of the difficulties created for many in the private rented sector who have lost significant employment income at this time, the Department will use the full flexibility of the scheme to provide the necessary support, including eligible customers in receipt of the Covid-19 pandemic unemployment payment.
Moratoriums on evictions and rent increases are being introduced for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency and should give some assurance to tenants during this time. Any person experiencing increased rents or facing the threat of the loss of their tenancy under rent supplement are urged to contact the Department’s Community Welfare Service without delay.
Any person who is experiencing financial hardship may be eligible for other financial supports under the means tested supplementary welfare allowance scheme.
I trust that this clarifies the position at this time.
