Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 May 2018
445. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if the case regarding alleged overpayment by a person (details supplied) in respect of their carer's allowance payment will be reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19828/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraCarer's allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a person who has such a disability that they require that level of care.
It is a condition for receipt of CA that the person’s means must be less than the statutory limit.
It is a further condition for receipt of payment that the carer must furnish such certificates, documents and information affecting their right to payment, that are requested by an officer of my department and the person concerned must notify the department of any change in circumstances which affect their right to payment.
During the course of a review of entitlement, it was discovered that the person concerned had not fully disclosed her means to the Department and to date she has not provided documentation that was requested from her by a social welfare inspector (SWI).
On 18 April 2018 it was decided that the person concerned was not entitled to CA from 11 September 2014 to 1 November 2017 and that she must refund the CA amounting to €38,941.00 paid to her during that period.
She was also notified of the reason for this decision and of her right of review and appeal.
If the person concerned furnishes the outstanding documentation, the matter will be reviewed and, if necessary, returned to the SWI.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
