Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2020
559. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) qualifies for the fuel allowance given their health circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36184/20]
View answerFuel allowance, under the National fuel scheme, may be payable to certain households in receipt of long term Social Welfare payments. The allowance is subject to a means test and is paid only to those who live alone or with certain exempted people. Full details of the qualifying criteria for the scheme are available on the Gov.ie website.
Invalidity pension (IP) is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and who satisfy the pay related social insurance (PRSI) contribution conditions.
A claim for IP was received from the lady concerned on 28 September 2020, including a claim for fuel allowance. In order to establish medical suitability for IP, two medical report forms for completion issued to her on 29 September 2020. As the completed medical report forms were not returned to the department within the given time frame, a reminder issued to her on 20 October 2020. To date the completed medical report forms have not been returned to the Department.
Upon receipt of the completed medical report forms, the IP claim and fuel application will be processed as quickly as possible and she will be notified directly of the outcome.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
