Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 October 2023
208. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Social Protection to reconsider the timeline for the expansion of the children's allowance to include 18-year-olds in full-time education; if the basis for decision to delay this change to September 2024 could be outlined; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45761/23]
View answerThe extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education was one of my key priorities as part of Budget 2024.
This is a significant change to the Child Benefit payment which will require technical and operational changes to the social welfare system before implementation. For this reason, the change will take effect from September 2024. Where a child in full time education turns 18 in the meantime they will be covered by the extension from September 2024 until they turn 19.
With many children now starting primary school at age 5 together with the increase in pupils doing transition year, there has been an increase in the number of 18 year olds still in secondary education. I believe the extension of Child Benefit to 18 Years Olds in Full-Time education is a long-term change for the better and will support families across Ireland into the future.
