Niamh Smyth
Question:81. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection if she can expedite a maternity benefit application (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9556/24]
View answerWednesday, 28 February 2024
Questions (81)
Written answers
Maternity Benefit is a payment made for up to 26 weeks to employed and self-employed women who are on maternity leave from work and who satisfy certain qualifying conditions including social insurance (PRSI) contribution conditions on their own insurance record.
To qualify for Maternity Benefit, the claimant must be in insurable employment that is covered by the Maternity Protection Act, 1994, immediately before the first day of maternity leave and she must meet certain PRSI contribution conditions listed in the governing legislation.
The Maternity Benefit claim for the person concerned was received by post on 8 February 2024 and was awarded on 22 February 2024. An award letter issued to the person concerned by post on the date of award.
Any arrears owed to the person concerned will be lodged to the nominated bank account later this week.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.