Social Welfare Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 March 2022

Tuesday, 22 March 2022

Questions (584)

Mattie McGrath

Question:

584. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection if extra consideration is being given to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on children with additional needs who are applying for the domiciliary care allowance; if children will be given extra consideration during assessment for domiciliary care allowance in circumstances in which they may previously have managed and regressed massively as a result of the pandemic; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14023/22]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) is payable in respect of children with a severe disability who require care and attention substantially in excess of that required by children of a similar age without their disability, providing this additional care is likely to last for at least 12 months.

The assessment process used in the consideration of whether a child meets the criteria for receipt of DCA includes the examination of all relevant factors identified as impacting on the child's additional care needs.

In circumstances where a child previously did not meet the qualifying criteria but their circumstances have now changed a new application should be submitted. 

I hope this clarifies matters for the Deputy.