Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2024
1326. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) has received a reduced payment on an illness benefit claim; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32242/24]
View answerThe rate of Illness Benefit paid is based on a person's average weekly earnings in the second last complete tax year from which their claim was made. The person concerned had zero earnings in the relevant tax year, and as such they qualified for Illness Benefit at the graduated rate of €104.10 per week.
The person concerned also currently has a debt with the department and, as such, part of his weekly payment goes towards paying this back. This means the amount that issues to him each week is €95.53.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
