Niamh Smyth
Ceist:392. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) is on illness benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56506/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 15 November 2022
Ceisteanna (392)
Freagraí scríofa
The person concerned is currently in receipt of Illness Benefit and has been in receipt of payment from the 11th August 2022 to date. She is in receipt of the full personal rate of Illness Benefit which is €208 per week. This will increase by €12 to €220 per week in January 2023 as part of Budget 2023. Illness Benefit is not one of the social welfare benefits that qualifies for the double payments announced as part of Budget 2023.
Illness Benefit is intended for people with short duration illnesses who will return to work relatively quickly. The average duration on the scheme is approximately six days and it is payable for a maximum of two years subject to eligibility conditions being met. For individuals with longer term needs they may apply for an Invalidity Pension or Disability Allowance.
If the person concerned is experiencing difficulties in meeting her basic financial commitments it is also open to her to contact the Community Welfare Service at her local Intreo Centre to see if she might qualify for assistance under the terms of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme.
I trust this clarifies the position.