Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 February 2017
179. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason for withdrawal of a carer's allowance and the household benefits package in the case of a person (details supplied); when payment is likely to be restored in view of the hardship for the person's family in the interim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5125/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraCarer's Allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment, made to persons who are providing full-time care and attention to a person who has a disability such that they require that level of care.
It is a condition for receipt of CA that the carer must be resident in the State and can only leave the State on holidays for 3 weeks in any calendar year. It is a further condition for receipt of CA that the carer’s means must be less than the statutory limit.
The person concerned was notified in writing on 18 July 2016 that payment of CA would be suspended from 28 July 2016. This was due to evidence which had been received by my department which indicated that the person concerned may have been absent from the State and may not have fully disclosed her means.
While the review of entitlement is ongoing, it has been decided to reinstate payment of CA. Because her spouse is claiming an increase in his jobseeker’s allowance in respect of her, CA has been re-instated at half-rate.
The person concerned has been notified of the current position on 1 February 2017.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
