Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021
1180. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Social Protection if the process will be standardised in cases in which a person is in receipt of farm assistance and their income is static from year to year given that some persons filling out these forms annually find this process extremely cumbersome; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20003/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFarm assist is a means-tested income support scheme for farmers. To qualify for the payment, a customer must be a farmer, farming land in the State, aged between 18 and 66 and satisfy a means test. The annual farm assist review is a necessary part of the normal review process for all these customers and a standardised review form is used for this purpose.
The means test for farm assist takes account of all income sources and farm outgoings. The information provided by the customer on the annual review form covers both the income generated and the operating costs associated with the farm, all of which are required as part of the annual review process. Details of any change in circumstances are also taken into account so as to ensure that the annual assessment accurately reflects the current situation.
As with all schemes of the Department, the forms in use are kept under review to ensure they continue to meet the requirements of the customer and scheme.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
