Social Welfare Benefits

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 July 2021

Thursday, 1 July 2021

Questions (176)

John Lahart

Question:

176. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Social Protection the take-up of parent’s leave and parent’s benefit since the extension was announced on 1 April 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35336/21]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

The number of Parents benefit claims created in the period from 1st April 2021 to 27th June 2021 was 15,391. In comparison, for the same period last year, the total number of Parents benefit claims received was 2,841.It should be noted that while a claim may be awarded in one month, the leave and benefit could be availed of at a different time, or over a period of months, as it is available to use one week at a time.I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.