Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 July 2017
436. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the extent to which she has identified the hardship caused in circumstances in which various payments are cut off, in some cases leading to homelessness; her plans to amend the system to avoid further homelessness; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33498/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraRent supplement plays a vital role in housing families and individuals, with the scheme supporting some 41,200 recipients for which the Government has provided €253 million for in 2017.
Continued entitlement to rent supplement is not linked to entitlement to other social welfare schemes, however the rent supplement claim may be reviewed following a decision to suspend or disallow a primary social welfare payment as there may be a change to the claimant’s circumstances that could affect eligibility. During a review of a rent supplement claim, the Community Welfare Service (CWS) officer will engage with the claimant to establish continued eligibility as quickly as possible and limit any delay to payments. Any person in this situation is encouraged to contact the Department’s CWS office responsible for their rent supplement claim to discuss their situation, if there is a specific risk of homelessness this should be communicated to the CWS officer at the earliest opportunity.
I can assure the Deputy that every effort is made so that rent supplement tenants are supported by my Department ensuring where possible that they can remain in their homes. In view of the ongoing difficulties in the rental market, my Department provides a targeted case-by-case policy approach that allows for flexibility where landlords seek rents in excess of the rent limits, which were increased in July 2016. In addition, the Protocol arrangement in place with Threshold is operational in the areas where supply issues are particularly acute covering Kildare, Dublin, Cork, Meath, Wicklow and Galway City. Since the introduction of this flexible approach, over 11,800 tenants at imminent risk of homelessness have been supported through increased rent supplement payments.
Any persons who consider that they have an entitlement to a basic weekly SWA payment, due to their primary payment being suspended / discontinued, or an ENP to address their immediate housing commitments should contact the Community Welfare Service of the Department at their local Intreo centre.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
