Paul Murphy
Question:130. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person receiving disability allowance is permitted to participate in a part-time springboard course or other ETB training options. [32934/23]
View answerWednesday, 5 July 2023
Questions (130)
Written answers
My Department provides a wide range of income supports for people who are unable to work due to illness or disability.
Disability Allowance is a means-tested payment for people with a disability, aged between 16 and 66 years, who are habitually resident in Ireland. Eligibility for the scheme includes the requirement that the disability must be expected to last for at least one year, and substantially restrict a person’s ability to work.
Person's in receipt of Disability Allowance can undertake further educational opportunities, including part-time springboard courses, without it affecting their Disability Allowance payment.
If a person is eighteen or over, and is in receipt of Disability Allowance for the required period and attending a full-time second level or level course at a recognised school or college, they may be able to avail of the Back to Education Allowance Scheme.
Where a person on Disability Allowance takes part in a Solas/ETB training course, they transfer from their social welfare payment to a Training Allowance, though they continue to be paid at the same rate.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.