Robert Troy
Question:416. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite a domiciliary care allowance review for a person (details supplied). [17933/24]
View answerTuesday, 23 April 2024
Questions (416)
Written answers
Where an application for Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) is awarded, payment is effective from the first of the month following receipt of the application. However, DCA applications may be backdated in cases where good cause for the delay in making the claim can be shown to the satisfaction of a Deciding Officer. This maximum permitted period is governed by social welfare legislation and cannot exceed 6 months.
An application for DCA in respect of their child was received by my Department from the person concerned on 15 February 2024. The application was awarded with effect from 1 March 2024 (month following receipt of the claim), as per decision dated 6 March 2024.
A request for a review, in relation to backdating of DCA entitlement was received on behalf of the person concerned.
Following a review, the DCA entitlement was backdated by 6 months to 1 September 2023, as per review decision dated 18 April 2024. Backdating of payment was allowed, as provided for under legislation, following consideration of the further information provided by the person concerned in their review request, relating to the good cause for not making an earlier claim.
The person concerned was notified of the review decision in writing on 18 April 2024.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.