Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 June 2023
823. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection if her Department will look at removing the means testing for cancer patients when they apply for an exceptional needs payment/SWA; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27912/23]
View answer837. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will give due consideration to the review of the current means test requirement for the additional needs/exceptional needs' payment for children, adolescent and young adults (CAYA) cancer patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28241/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 823 and 837 together.
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is the safety net within the overall social welfare system in that it provides assistance to eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependents.
Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, my Department may make Additional Needs Payments to help meet essential expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income or other personal and household resources.
The decision process involves consideration of the need presented and the ability of the person and their household to meet that need.
This entails an assessment, as opposed to a specific means test, of an applicant’s weekly household income, their savings and investments, their outgoings and the type of assistance needed. Other State supports that may already be available to the person are also considered.
There is no provision for an exemption of a medical condition from the decision process.
I consider the current assessment process used in determining Additional Needs Payment claims to be a fair and equitable approach for any person wishing to make an Additional Needs Payment application as it ensures that support is provided to people with the greatest financial need.
Any person who considers that they may have an entitlement to an Additional Needs Payment is encouraged to contact their local community welfare service. There is a National Community Welfare Contact Centre in place - 0818-607080 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office. In addition, applications can be made online via www.mywelfare.ie.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
