Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 April 2022
1084. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Social Protection the manner in which academic scholarships for undergraduate or masters level impact on invalidity, pension and secondary supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20910/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraInvalidity pension (IP) is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and for no other reason who satisfy the pay related social insurance (PRSI) contribution conditions.
Receipt of an academic scholarship would not impact on the IP payment. People in receipt of Invalidity Pension can participate in courses of education. If there is no work placement involved in the course, they notify the Invalidity Pension section of the course. If there is a work placement element to the course, they may need to apply to transfer to the Back to Education Allowance which provides access to courses up to and including level 8 for the duration of the course. Or they may consider accessing Partial Capacity Benefit which would enable them to participate in employment whilst retaining access to a payment. In either case, they will revert back to Invalidity Pension upon completion of the course of study. There will be no loss of secondary payments for the duration of the course of education undertaken.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
