Michael Healy-Rae
Question:1089. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will address a matter (details supplied) regarding an overpayment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21032/22]
View answerTuesday, 26 April 2022
Questions (1089)
Written answers
Prior to the awarding of his Invalidity Pension in October 2017 the person concerned had been in receipt of Illness Benefit. An issue arose in relation to the increases being paid in respect of his dependents on the Illness Benefit claim giving rise to an overpayment of €2,105.33.
The person concerned was advised as to the position in a letter that issued on 27 June 2017. He initially commenced repaying the debt, but no further repayments were made after September 2017 leaving an outstanding balance of €1,883.38.
Further letters have issued to the person concerned informing him of the outstanding amount and the options available to repay same. The most recent letter issued 4 April 2022. This letter proposed the deduction of €10 per week from his current social welfare payment with the first deduction due to start from the 26 April 2022. This letter included a form that he can fill out to provide any facts or details he considers relevant to the repayment of his debt.
If the person concerned believes that the proposed method of recovering his debt is not feasible, he should complete the form and return it to the Department so that his debt recovery plan can be reviewed.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.