Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 September 2011
346 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will deal with a matter regarding a back to school grant in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23433/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe purpose of the Back to School Clothing & Footwear Allowance (BSCFA) scheme is to assist families on social welfare and Health Service Executive payments towards the cost of uniforms and footwear for children who are attending school.
The administrative arrangements for the 2011 BSCFA scheme differ from those that applied in previous years. This year the scheme is being administered directly by the Department of Social Protection and the majority of BSCFA entitlements were fully automated with no application form required from customers. Customers who did not receive an automated payment are required to complete application forms which are being processed from a centralised unit in the Department's office in Letterkenny.
Following the conclusion of the 2011 scheme, the Department intends to review all aspects of the scheme. The question of the making of payments directly to schools will be considered in the context of the review.
