Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 October 2010
467 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will ensure that an issue (details supplied) is resolved as soon as possible and ensure that participants on the programme are given their full entitlements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39445/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that the difficulties which have arisen in this case have arisen as a consequence of a change in practice introduced by FÁS in respect of persons in receipt of Disability Allowance who participate in part-time training courses funded by FÁS.
These difficulties have recently come to light in my Department and I have arranged that the position in respect of those concerned will be addressed without delay. In practice, and in line with the legislative provisions governing the Disability Allowance scheme, the training allowance (excluding any allowance paid specifically towards travel and other expenses associated with the training course) will be assessed as means and the Disability Allowance payment adjusted accordingly. This will ensure that the people concerned do not lose out in any way and will continue also to retain entitlement to the relevant secondary benefits.
More generally, the wider issues arising from the change in practice introduced by FÁS are the subject of ongoing discussions between my Department and the Department of Education and Skills.
