Rent Supplement Scheme Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2015

Tuesday, 26 May 2015

Ceisteanna (205)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

205. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question No. 55 of 30 April 2015, if equality legislation is being observed in cases where separation or divorce has occurred and the family home is divided as per a decision of the courts, and where one party remains in the family home on foot of such a decision and does not have means assessed against them in respect of a means-tested payment, while the other party receives a cash settlement in lieu of entitlement to the family home, but has means assessed against them for rent supplement purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20251/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Social Protection

The Department operates a range of statutory means tested schemes where, in order to qualify for the social assistance payment, the claimant must satisfy a means test. The means tests takes account of the income a person or couple has in terms of cash, property (other than the home) and capital. The combination of the means test and awarding differentiated rates of payment is premised on ensuring that social welfare payments are paid to those most in need.

Rent supplement, administered under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme (SWA), is a statutory means tested scheme which is payable at differentiated rates of payment taking into account the applicant’s means and accommodation requirements. Rent supplement may be payable where a person is in need of accommodation and unable to provide it from their own resources.

If the Deputy is referring to a particular case he should provide the details to the Department so all the facts can be fully considered.