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Social Welfare Benefits

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 June 2021

Thursday, 24 June 2021

Questions (330)

Claire Kerrane

Question:

330. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection when she plans to introduce the cost of a disability payment as committed to in the programme for Government. [34086/21]

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Written answers

My Department commissioned Indecon International Consultants to carry out research into the cost of disability. In line with the actual commitment contained in the Programme for Government, the  Government will use the research into the cost of disability to individuals and families to properly inform the direction of future policy.

Specifically, the research was expected to consider whether objectives can be met through financial support, for instance as a supplement to the current income support system, through service provision or through other supports. This matter is considerably wider than the income support system and will not be addressed through income support alone which is why a whole-of-Government perspective is being taken. Due consideration will have to be given to the findings of the report from all the relevant Government departments who have a role to play in the delivery of disability services and

supports and not just my Department.

In Budget 2021, I introduced a number of measures to support people with disabilities, this included an increase of €20 in the earnings disregard for recipients of Disability Allowance, which came into effect in June. This will affect 15,000 recipients and cost €2.9m in 2021. Other measures include a €1,000 Training Grant to help people with disabilities who are seeking employment, and an increase of €150 to the Carer’s Support Grant. The new Grant rate of €1,850 is the highest rate ever and was paid in early June.

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