Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
881. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Social Protection if she plans to pay the full basic supplementary welfare allowance to asylum seekers who are not in direct provision and if she plans to give asylum-seeking children access to child benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16701/23]
View answerThe provision of material reception conditions, including food and health services, for applicants for International Protection who are awaiting a decision on their application is the responsibility of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) and the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS).
My department administers the daily expenses allowance (DEA) which is paid to protection applicants who reside in accommodation provided by IPAS in order to meet incidental, personal expenses. This is also paid to those who are on a waiting list for IPAS accommodation. The current weekly rates of payment are €38.80 per adult and €29.80 per child.
DCEDIY is leading the implementation of the commitments contained in the White Paper to End Direct Provision, including the provision of a new income support payment system. This paper was adopted by the Government in February 2021 and my officials will continue to work with colleagues in DCEDIY to support the implementation of change.
In order to qualify for supplementary welfare allowance or child benefit, applicants must satisfy the Habitual Residence Condition. Applicants for International Protection do not satisfy the Habitual Residence Condition while they are waiting for a decision on their application for international protection.
Persons granted refugee status have the right to the same social welfare benefits as an Irish citizen, including access to a basic SWA payment and child benefit.
All Applicants for International Protection are eligible to apply for an additional needs payment under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme to meet essential expenses that they cannot meet from their own resources. This is an overarching term used to refer to exceptional and urgent needs payments, and certain supplements. Exceptional and urgent needs payments are not subject to the Habitual Residence Condition so can be provided, where needed, to assist those who do not habitually reside in Ireland.
Any person who considers they may have an entitlement to a payment under the SWA Scheme is encouraged to contact their local Intreo Centre. There is a National Community Welfare Contact Centre in place - 0818-607080 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
