Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 May 2012
236 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if supplementary payments are being selectively suspended in applications for social welfare payments still on appeal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22919/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA) is designed to provide immediate and flexible assistance to those in need who do not qualify for payment under other State schemes. There are currently approximately 33,700 customers in receipt of a basic weekly payment under the SWA scheme for which the Government has provided €160 million for 2012.
Apart from the excluded categories, anyone in the State who satisfies a habitual residence condition and a means test, has registered for employment, unless they have a physical or mental disability, and can prove unemployment may qualify for a weekly payment of SWA. Customers awaiting the outcome of a claim or an appeal for a primary social welfare payment may qualify for the scheme.
Applications for SWA are determined on an individual basis having regard to the specific circumstances of each case. However, customers who no longer satisfy the criteria for the SWA scheme may have their payments suspended, even though they may have an appeal pending.
