Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 January 2021
586. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when a basic social welfare payment will be awarded in the case of a person (details supplied); if immediate steps can be taken to ensure the restoration of emergency payment given that they have two dependent children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1626/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraPayment of Jobseeker’s Allowance (JA) in the case of the person concerned ceased on 23/12/2020 and is currently suspended pending the provision of a current GNIB card. This card is required to verify continued entitlement to JA. Following 3 requests made to the person concerned on 13/10/2020, 25/11/2020 and 08/12/2020 for a current GNIB card, the person concerned informed officials of my Department that her GNIB card was in a storage facility and she has not advised my officials of any difficulty in submitting the GNIB card for examination. If the person concerned is unable to produce her GNIB card she should contact the Department of Justice to request a letter confirming her permission to reside in the State in order that her social welfare entitlement may be reviewed.
An Exceptional Needs Payment issued to the person concerned on 08/01/2021. An application form for a Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) was also given to the person concerned on the same date for completion. Her entitlement to a SWA payment will be assessed on return of the completed application and supporting documentation. A current GNIB card or a suitable letter from the Department of Justice will also be required to confirm her residency status as part of the application process and in line with current guidelines.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
