Bernard Durkan
Ceist:435. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) qualifies for the living alone allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57499/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 22 November 2022
Ceisteanna (435, 436)
Bernard Durkan
Ceist:436. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) qualifies for the fuel allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57500/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 435 and 436 together.
The person concerned has been in receipt of living alone allowance since 25/03/2011. Their weekly pension payment is €275.30. This is comprised of the maximum personal rate of €253.30, plus €22 living alone allowance. As a result of the cost-of-living measures announced in the budget, the person concerned will receive a living alone allowance lump sum of €200 on 18/11/2022.
The person concerned applied for fuel allowance in 2020. Their application was disallowed as their weekly means were assessed as €523.30. This exceeds the current limit of €373.30. However, from January 2023, the weekly means limit will increase to €500 for those aged over 70. If the person concerned continues to have weekly means in excess of €500, she would not be entitled to fuel allowance now or in January. If her weekly means have changed, it is open to her to re-apply to have her entitlement re-examined.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
Question No. 436 answered with Question No. 435.
Question No. 437 answered with Question No. 417.