Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 April 2021
98. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason the level of rent allowance payable was reduced following reassessment in the case of a person (details supplied); if the case will be reassessed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20963/21]
View answerThe purpose of Rent Supplement is to provide short-term income support to assist with the accommodation costs of eligible people living in private rented accommodation. It is subject to a means test and other eligibility criteria. Rent Supplement claims are also subject to ongoing reviews and payments may be affected if relevant information is not provided or if there is any change in circumstances.
The person concerned was awarded a weekly Rent Supplement payment of €293.10 with effect from 28/05/2020. Following the closure of her Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) on 15/02/2021, the Rent Supplement claim for the person concerned was re-assessed to €215.30 per week with effect from 13/03/2021. The rate of Rent Supplement entitlement was re-assessed on the basis of her average weekly income from employment and the Working Family Payment she receives from my Department. The person concerned was notified of the outcome of this review on 13/03/21 and was advised of her right to appeal the decision to the independent Chief Appeals Officer.
The person concerned was awarded an Illness Benefit payment this week. Following this award officials from my Department will contact the person concerned to carry out a further review of the rate of Rent Supplement in payment.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
