Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
1069. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the timeline for the introduction of a payment equivalent to child benefit for all children in the international protection process, as promised in the White Paper to End Direct Provision and to Establish a New International Protection Support Service; the estimated cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48432/23]
View answerThe introduction of an International Protection Child Payment (IPCP) is a key commitment in the White Paper to End Direct Provision and to Establish a New International Protection Support Service. The IPCP will contribute towards the cost of raising a child, protect against child poverty, and enable participation in Irish society. The IPCP is an important commitment to help address the high rates of poverty experienced by this group of children in keeping with the particular focus on child poverty in Budget 2024.
It is proposed the IPCP will be a payment of €140 per month, or €32.11 per week, to be paid in respect of each International Protection Applicant child up to the age of 18, who are residing in IPAS accommodation and are awaiting a decision. This payment would be in addition to the child Daily Expenses Allowance of €29.80 a week.
As part of the Budget process, I secured €4.7m to provide for the IPCP in 2024. A business case for sanction on the establishment of the IPCP has now been prepared and submitted to the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform in line with the rules and procedures governing public spending.
As part of the development of the White Paper, agreement was reached in principal that the Department of Social Protection would administer the IPCP. My officials are currently engaged in discussions to agree the particulars of this arrangement.
