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Social Welfare Payments

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 February 2022

Tuesday, 15 February 2022

Questions (513)

Paul Kehoe

Question:

513. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social Protection if the rate of illness benefit that is being paid to a person (details supplied) can be increased; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8403/22]

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Written answers

The rate of Illness Benefit payable is based on a person's average weekly earnings in the relevant tax year. For claims made in 2021, the relevant tax year is 2019. The person concerned qualified for Illness Benefit at a rate of €134.20 per week as her average weekly earnings in 2019 were between €150.00 and €219.99. For 2022, the relevant tax year is 2020; the current rate of payment remains correct.

If the person concerned is experiencing difficulties meeting her financial commitments she should contact the Department's representative, formerly known as a Community Welfare Officer, at her local Intreo Centre so that an assessment of her circumstances can be carried out to determine whether she might qualify for assistance under the terms of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance Scheme.

I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.

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