Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 March 2022
495. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection if the provision of an alarm system or a phonewatch will be added to the household benefit package in view of the rise in rural and urban crime and in the interest in protecting our older citizens; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11033/22]
View answerThe Department of Social Protection administers the Telephone Support Allowance (TSA) which is a weekly payment of €2.50, which may assist people who qualify under the Seniors Alert Scheme, among others. Customers of my Department who are in receipt of a qualifying payment and who are also in receipt of the Living Alone Allowance and the Fuel Allowance automatically qualify for the TSA. Approximately 139,000 customers are currently in receipt of the TSA payment. The estimated full year cost of the scheme is circa €18.1 million.
The primary objective of the TSA is to support the most vulnerable people living alone at risk of isolation, including the elderly and those with disabilities, with the cost of communications and/or a home alert system.
The Department of Rural and Community Development funds the Seniors Alert Scheme and Pobal administers this on behalf of that Department. This provides funding for a free personal monitored alarm, to enable older persons of 65 or older and of limited means, to continue to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
