Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 October 2021
76. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be reconsidered for an application for fuel allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48487/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFuel allowance is a means-tested payment to assist householders on long-term social welfare payments towards the cost of their winter heating needs.
The main eligibility conditions for receipt of fuel allowance are that a person must be in receipt of a qualifying payment, satisfy a means test and live alone or with other qualifying persons. The fuel allowance means test is linked to the maximum rate of State pension (contributory). An individual can have a weekly income of up to €100.00 above the maximum rate for State pension (contributory) and still be eligible for fuel allowance.
An application for fuel allowance from the person concerned was registered by my Department on 10 September 2021. A member of their household is currently in receipt of Illness Benefit, which is not a qualifying payment for fuel allowance.
Since the qualifying conditions for the scheme are not satisfied, the person’s application for fuel allowance was disallowed and they were notified in writing of this decision on 18 September 2021.
If the person’s circumstances change, it is open to them to reapply for fuel allowance.I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
