Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 October 2021
448. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the progress to date in the determination of an application by a person (details supplied) for a living alone allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47764/21]
View answer449. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the eligibility of a person (details supplied) for the fuel allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47765/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 448 and 449 together.
The person concerned is currently in receipt of a reduced rate of Illness Benefit from the Department, based on her earnings in the relevant tax year. She is also in receipt of a top-up payment by way of a basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance to bring her to the appropriate income level for her household circumstances.
The Illness Benefit payment, which is her primary payment, is not a qualifying payment for either the fuel allowance or the living alone allowance. As the person concerned has not been in receipt of basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance for 15 months, this claim would not qualify for the Fuel Allowance.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
