Social Welfare Payments

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022

Tuesday, 26 July 2022

Questions (1190)

Michael Ring

Question:

1190. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will review the legislation surrounding the length of time disability allowance payments can be made to people when they are outside the State (details supplied) if the people concerned are of mixed heritage and are anxious to maintain strong familial links with their family abroad and as a result need to visit them a number of times a year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39800/22]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

At the end of May, there were almost 155,800 people in receipt of Disability Allowance. Legislation provides that, in addition to the means test, eligibility for the Disability Allowance is restricted to person’s aged 16 to 66 years of age, is subject to a medical assessment and a habitual residency requirement. This is in line with the general principles of social assistance payments.

A person in receipt of Disability Allowance may receive payment where absent from the State for a maximum of two weeks while on holiday, attending a funeral, visiting a sick relative, etc. The Department must be notified in advance of the date of departure. There are no plans to change these criteria.

I trust that this clarifies this matter for the Deputy.