Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 May 2022
536. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if payments made to households who house Ukrainian refugees in their homes will be assessed as income in cases in which the householder is in receipt of a means tested social welfare payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22784/22]
View answerMy Department is providing ongoing support and services to assist people covered by the Temporary Protection Directive who are fleeing Ukraine and who arrive in Ireland, such as the provision of PPSNs and income supports.
Currently, where a recipient of a means tested social assistance payment provides accommodation in their own home, any rental payment received in exchange will be assessed in the means test for their social assistance payment and could affect their weekly rate of payment.
In addition, entitlement to secondary benefits such as Fuel Allowance or Living Alone Allowance may be affected due to changes in household composition.
With this in mind, I have asked my officials to examine these issues and come forward with proposals as soon as possible.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
