Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2014
85. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of applications made to Caranua to date; the number of payments made to applicants; and if he is satisfied with the speed at which progress is being made. [29406/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that by 30th June, Caranua had received 2,921 applications and had made 368 payments in respect of 118 applicants. The first stage of the application process involves verifying an applicant's eligibility and proof of identity. Once confirmed applicants are contacted by one of Caranua's Application Advisers, who discusses their needs and how Caranua can meet those needs. While some applicants may know exactly what they want to apply for, in other cases it may involve several conversations with their Application Advisor and they may access a number of services. I am aware that there has been a delay in processing applications, which has arisen due to the number of applications and calls received being higher than expected and the time taken to recruit staff. Caranua's four Application Advisors are in place since late May and my Department has recently approved Caranua's request to engage an Agency to provide temporary additional resources to address the backlog.
Value of 368 Payments made by Caranua by 30th June in respect of 118 applicants
|
- |
Health and wellbeing |
Housing |
Education |
Total |
|
Payment value |
€108,088.92 |
€305,980.14 |
€59,101.46 |
€473,170.52 |
