Desmond J. O'Malley
Ceist:54 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Social Welfare when he proposes to publish the findings of the review group on supplementary welfare allowance.
Written Answers. - Supplementary Welfare Allowances.
I understand the Deputy is referring to the Advisory Group on Supplementary Welfare which was established last year. The group is chaired by my Department and consists of representatives from all the health boards.
The group provides a formal structure for regular discussion on the supplementary welfare allowance scheme and on related issues, with those who are involved directly in administering the scheme on my behalf. However, the main purpose of the advisory group is to review all aspects of the operation of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme with a view to achieving consistency in the operation of the scheme across all boards. This task involves an examination of all guidelines currently in use in the administration of the scheme with the objective of producing updated and comprehensive guidance for health boards. As the guidelines are updated they will be published.
The group is currently bringing the guidelines on rent and mortgage supplementation under the scheme to conclusion. I intend to publish these guidelines later this year.