Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 June 2023
232. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason two persons (details supplied) are not receiving the full amount of jobseeker's allowance, given they are currently homeless, unable to source accommodation via the HAP scheme due to the chronic shortage of properties and are being supported with emergency bed and breakfast vouchers by the local authority. [26792/23]
View answerAge-related rates for jobseeker's allowance recipients were introduced on a phased basis from 2009 to tackle high youth unemployment and to avoid long-term welfare dependency. Where a jobseeker aged 18-24 participates in approved full-time education or training, they will receive the maximum rate of payment.
Age-related jobseeker’s allowance rates also do not apply to those with qualifying child dependents, or those who were in care of the HSE, Child and Family Agency (Tusla) during the 12 months immediately before they turned 18.
A jobseeker aged between 18 and 24 is entitled to an exemption from the reduced rates if they are living independently of the family home and are in receipt of state housing supports. They must be in receipt of either rent supplement, housing assistance payment (HAP), rental accommodation scheme (RAS), local authority housing or living permanently in accommodation provided by an approved housing body to qualify for and exemption from the reduced rates. The individuals referenced are not currently in receipt of any of the supports outlined above.
The Community Welfare Service supports young people in these circumstances and provides support under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. Supports can include additional needs payments, depending on the individual circumstances involved.
I trust that this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
