Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 April 2022
232. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the way in which her Department can help to facilitate a person (details supplied) who requires a basic social welfare payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21645/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) scheme is the safety net within the overall social welfare system in that it provides assistance to eligible people in the state whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependents. Supports provided under the SWA scheme can consist of a basic weekly payment, a weekly or monthly supplement in respect of certain expenses, as well as single Exceptional Needs Payments (ENPs) and Urgent Needs Payments (UNPs).
The weekly SWA payment provides immediate assistance for those in need who are awaiting the outcome of a claim or an appeal for a primary social welfare payment or do not qualify for payment under other state schemes. Applications made under the SWA Scheme are administered by Designated Persons in the Community Welfare Service in my Department.
Departmental records reflect that the person concerned applied for a weekly SWA payment with effect from 14/04/2022.
Following the Deputy’s representation, a Designated Person arranged a home visit with the person concerned on 27/04/2022 to progress his application.
In the course of the meeting the person concerned was asked to provide the following information:
- A copy of document from the Department of Justice outlining the conditions relating to the person’s permission to reside in the state.
- Proof of means while in Ireland.
- Lease agreement.
- Completed application forms for Disability Allowance and Habitual Residence Condition.
When this information has been received, the SWA application will be assessed and the person concerned will be advised of the outcome in writing.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
