Illness Benefit Payments

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 November 2016

Wednesday, 2 November 2016

Ceisteanna (191)

Thomas Byrne

Ceist:

191. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a payment for illness benefit has been reduced in respect of a person (details supplied). [32512/16]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Social Protection

Under Social Protection Regulations the rate payable on illness benefit claims is dependent on a person’s average weekly earnings in the governing contribution year. For claims made in 2016 the governing contribution year is 2014.

The illness benefit claim of the person concerned was awarded in March 2016 and payment has been made to date. It is being paid at the personal rate of €147.30. This rate reflects the person’s average weekly earnings in the 2014 contribution year.

If the person concerned is unable to meet their needs or the needs of their household, they may be entitled to supplementary welfare allowance and should contact my Department’s community welfare services at their local Intreo centre.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.