Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 September 2023
375. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a travel allowance paid in respect of travel for dialysis treatment is counted as means in an assessment for disability allowance; the plans she has, if any, to review this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41311/23]
View answerThe system of social assistance supports provides payments based on an income need. The means test plays a critical role in determining whether or not an income need arises as a consequence of a particular contingency – such as disability, unemployment or caring. This ensures that the recipient has a verifiable income need and that resources are targeted to those who need them most.
By its nature, the means test takes account of the income a person or couple has in terms of cash, property - other than the family home - and capital. It does not take account of a person’s expenditure. In line with most social assistance payments, deductions permitted for disability allowance include PRSI, union dues and superannuation (pension contributions).
A wide range of disregards are provided as part of the Means Rules set out in Schedule 3 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act (2005, as amended) and also under secondary legislation under the Act.
My officials will be happy to engage with the Deputy's office to ascertain the precise nature and source of the travel allowance paid in the circumstance referred to in this parliamentary question, investigate the consequent treatment of such an allowance in terms of the Department's means rules and respond to the Deputy in writing.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
