Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 December 2020
65. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when the increases to the qualified child payments as announced in budget 2021 will take effect; the number of families that will benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40014/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI was pleased to announce increases to the rates of payment in respect of qualified children as part of Budget 2021. This measure will provide for higher payments in respect of an estimated 419,000 children in 2021. All families with qualified children will gain €2 per week per qualified child under the age of 12 and €5 per child aged 12 years and over, at an estimated cost of €59.2 million in 2021. The increase will take effect from 4th January 2021. This increase is in recognition of the need for greater income support for welfare-dependent households with children. It includes a higher level of increase for children aged 12 and over in recognition of the higher costs faced by families with older children. Minimum Essential Standard of Living (MESL) research has consistently identified older children as having additional and different needs distinct from children in younger age groups. The respective weekly rates will be €45 for children aged 12 and over and €38 for children under 12 years of age.
