Written Answers Nos. 263-284
263. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Social Protection if the Government will reintroduce the enhanced Covid sick pay scheme of €350 per week; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59964/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health (Preservation and Protection and other Emergency Measures in the Public Interest) Act 2020 (No 1 of 2020) introduced amendments to the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 to provide for special arrangements (including an enhanced rate payable at €350 per week) for the payment of Illness Benefit to those who are diagnosed with Covid-19 by a medical practitioner or who are a probable source of infection.
Enhanced Illness Benefit provided an incentive for employed and self-employed workers to self-isolate if they had Covid-19 or if they had symptoms and to comply with public health advice.
The Government decided on 1 June 2021 that Enhanced Illness Benefit would remain in place until the spread of Covid-19 was no longer a significant risk to public health. Regulations contained a sunset clause that allowed for the discontinuation of the scheme after a specified date. This date was extended a number of times by Government Order; the latest extension expired on 30 September 2022.
Much has changed since the provisions were introduced in March 2020. The development of and successful roll-out of the vaccination programme led to a significant reduction in the public health risk. The Government announced the phased ending of restrictions from 22 January 2022. The Department of Health advised that, in line with the transition out of the emergency phase of the pandemic, the proposal to provide Illness Benefit for Covid-19 in a manner similar to that of any other infectious disease was an appropriate one.
In view of the changed public health situation, the government decided on 20 September to discontinue the provision of Enhanced Illness Benefit after 30 September 2022. For the above reason, I am not planning to reintroduce the Covid-19 Enhanced Illness Benefit payment.
This Department provides a suite of income supports to those who cannot work due to illness or disability of any type. It is important to note that entitlement to these supports is generally not dependent on the nature of the illness or disability but on the extent to which a particular illness or disability impairs or restricts a working age person’s capacity to work. These supports include Illness Benefit (short-term payment) and Disability Allowance and Invalidity Pension (long-term payments).
With regard to additional supports, this Department also provides Additional Needs Payments under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme to help meet essential expenditure which a person could not reasonably be expected to meet out of their weekly income. This includes exceptional and urgent needs payments, and certain supplements to assist with ongoing or recurring costs that cannot be met from a person’s own resources and are deemed to be necessary. The payment is available to anyone who needs it and qualifies, whether the person is currently on a social welfare payment or in employment.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
264. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question No. 440 of 25 October 2022, if she will provide an example of the rate mix of averaging and the total contribution approach which will be used in the State pension (contributory) transition phase from January 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59874/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government Our Shared Future commits to introducing a Total Contributions Approach to align a person’s State Pension (Contributory) payment rate more closely with the contributions they make. This will include a provision for people who take time off from paid employment to undertake a full-time caring role. The Total Contributions Approach represents a fairer system for calculating State Pension (Contributory) payment rates and removes the anomalies that exist with the Yearly Average approach.
As the Deputy is aware, I announced a series of landmark reforms to the State Pension system last September. The measures are in response to the Pensions Commission’s recommendations and represent the biggest ever structural reform of the Irish State Pension system. One of the reforms agreed by Government is a phased 10-year full transition to the Total Contributions Approach and the abolition of the Yearly Average approach to commence from January 2024. The transitional arrangements are to avoid a ‘cliff edge’ effect and to mitigate the impact of the move on the first cohort.
All new State Pension (Contributory) applications are currently assessed under all possible rate calculation methods, including the Yearly Average and the Interim Total Contributions Approach (also known as the Aggregated Contribution Method), with the most beneficial rate paid to the pensioner. The elements which make up each method are set out in legislation.
The likely impact of the transition from the current arrangements to a Total Contributions Approach only system is outlined in the table below. The percentages, timelines and calculations in the tables are for illustrative purposes only. The introduction of the changes, including the eligibility rules and calculation methodology during the transitional phase, will require legislation. My officials are currently working to implement the reforms, including the drafting of legislation and development of administrative and IT systems as necessary.
Table 1 - Phased 10 year Full Transition to the Total Contributions Approach and Abolition of the Yearly Average Method
|
Year Attaining State Pension Age 66 |
If a person is better-off with Yearly Average Calculation Mix of the Yearly Average and Total Contribution Approach to be used in the transition phase |
If a person is better-off withTotal Contributions ApproachCalculation |
|
2024 |
90% Yearly Average +10% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2025 |
80% Yearly Average +20% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2026 |
70% Yearly Average +30% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2027 |
60% Yearly Average +40% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2028 |
50% Yearly Average +50% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2029 |
40% Yearly Average +60% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2030 |
30% Yearly Average +70% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2031 |
20% Yearly Average +80% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2032 |
10% Yearly Average +90% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
|
2033 |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
100% Total Contributions Approach |
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
265. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Social Protection the options that are available to a person who cannot go into an Intreo centre to get a public services card due to severe social anxiety; if this person will be allowed to get a photo in a pharmacy similar to a passport application or if there is any other avenue available to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59897/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe SAFE registration process, which the Department uses to authenticate identity and issue customers with a Public Services Card (PSC), is carried out in the Department's public offices.
The process involves the taking of a person's photograph with a camera which is integrated with the Department's computer system. Photographs cannot be taken in other locations.
My Department has appointed Access Officers in accordance with section 26(2) of the Disability Act 2005. Access Officers are responsible for providing or arranging for, and coordinating, assistance and guidance to persons with disabilities accessing services provided by the offices and generally to act as a point of contact for people with disabilities wishing to access such services.
Any person who has concerns about attending an office of my Department for the reason outlined by the Deputy should contact their local Intreo Centre and ask to speak to the Access Officer. Alternatively, the Deputy can contact the Client Identity Services area of my Department, who will liaise with the relevant Access Officer to make arrangements in this particular case.
I can also advise the Deputy that my Department is currently developing an online application service for persons who do not currently have a Public Services Card and it is expected that this service will be introduced in the third quarter of 2023.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
266. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection if clarification will be provided in relation to the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59918/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe person concerned was in receipt of Disability Allowance (DA) effective from 02 February 2022 to 20 September 2022. She commenced an Education Training Course (ETB) on 12 September 2022.
A letter issued to her on 15 September 2022, informing her that her DA payment will stop for the duration of the course in line with the correct procedure which is that a DA recipient cannot receive both payments - Disability Allowance and a full payment from their course provider Solas/ ETB Training.
In accordance with Data Protection Regulations, the Department is unable to discuss individual personal data with anyone other than the person concerned or their agent, or with someone they have appointed authority to act on their behalf.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
267. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person who qualifies for the fuel allowance will lose their entitlement to the allowance if they rent a room to a person who is not in receipt of any qualifying payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59928/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra268. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person who is in receipt of the fuel allowance will lose the allowance if they rent a room and provide care to a person who is not in receipt of any qualifying social welfare payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59929/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 267 and 268 together.
The Fuel Allowance is a payment of €33 per week for 28 weeks (a total of €924 each year) from late September to April, at an estimated cost of €366 million in 2022. The purpose of this payment is to assist these households with their energy costs. Only one allowance is paid per household.
The criteria for Fuel Allowance are framed in order to direct the limited resources available to my Department in as targeted a manner as possible. To qualify for the Fuel Allowance payment, a person must satisfy all the qualifying criteria including the household composition criteria. This ensures that the Fuel Allowance payment goes to those who are more vulnerable to fuel poverty, including those reliant on social protection payments for longer periods and who are unlikely to have additional resources of their own.
Earlier this year, I was pleased to announce a series of measures which will remove barriers facing social welfare customers who choose to accommodate people in their homes.
I introduced a new means disregard of up to €14,000 per annum, in respect of those who rent a room in their home. This brings social welfare rules in line with the Rent a Room Relief Scheme, which has been operated for many years by the Revenue Commissioners. This new disregard means that a social welfare customer will be able to rent out a room in their home for up to €14,000 per annum and this income will not see their means-tested social welfare payment impacted. For schemes such as the Fuel Allowance Scheme, household composition rules continue to apply. Accordingly, the impact on entitlement to the Fuel Allowance will depend, in turn, on the consequences of the rental on the household composition. By way of illustration, if they took in a refugee and received the accommodation recognition payment, and the refugee was in receipt of a qualifying payment, this would not impact on their Fuel Allowance. But if they take in a working person, it would affect the household composition and thus affect entitlement to the Fuel Allowance.
Therefore, if a person who is in receipt of Fuel Allowance rents a room out to a non-qualifying/non disregarded person for Fuel Allowance purposes they may lose their entitlement to the payment. However, the rental income received should mean that that this contribution towards household costs by the person would compensate for any such reduction in payments from my Department.
There will always be exceptional cases and it is for this reason that the Department of Social Protection provides Additional Needs Payments as part of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme for people who have an urgent need which they cannot meet from their own resources. These payments are available through our Community Welfare Officers.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
269. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of an appeal by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59932/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered on 10 August 2022 and in accordance with the statutory requirements the file and the Departmental papers were requested from the Department of Social Protection. These papers were received on 8 November 2022 and on 15 November 2022 the file was referred to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if necessary, hold an oral hearing.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
270. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason that a carer’s allowance bonus was paid into the old account of a person (details supplied) and not into the account into which they receive their weekly payment; if arrangements will be made to recall the paid bonus to the incorrect account and reissue it to the account used for their weekly payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59957/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraCarer's allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a child or an adult who has such a disability that as a result they require that level of care.
An application for CA was received from the person concerned on 6 December 2019.
CA was awarded on 20 March 2020 with effect from 12 December 2019 and the first payment issued to their nominated bank account on 26 March 2020.
The person concerned applied to have their CA payment method updated to a new bank account through the online 'change payment method' facility on MyWelfare in September 2022.
The Carer's Support Grant (CSG) is not an option currently available through the 'change payment method' facility on MyWelfare.
A regular report to identify cases whereby a customer has sought to change the payment method for their CA payment through MyWelfare is now in place. This will ensure that similar cases will be captured going forward and allow for the payment method for CSG to be brought in line with the CA payment method.
Payment in this case will be returned by Ulster Bank and will re-issue to the person concerned at the earliest possible date.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
271. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Social Protection the actions that are being taken by her Department in relation to pension and employment rights of self-employed contractors at RTÉ given the ongoing WRC action against the public broadcaster; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59973/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has no function in relation to the matters referred to by the Deputy. My Department is engaging with contractors of RTÉ to examine their employment status from a PRSI contributions perspective and to ensure that the correct class of PRSI is being paid for workers.
Issues directly related to RTÉ, including pension scheme arrangements, are matters for that organisation and the relevant line Department, in this case, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
Policy issues related to public service pensions are matters for the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
I hope this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
272. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) has sufficient contributions to qualify for an invalidity pension; and if their application will be reviewed as a matter of urgency. [60002/22]
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 and who satisfy the pay related social insurance (PRSI) contribution conditions.My department received an application for IP from the person concerned on 27 July 2022. Based on the medical information supplied, it was refused on the grounds that the medical conditions for the scheme were not satisfied. Notification of the decision issued to the person concerned on 14 November 2022, informing him of this decision, of his right to seek a review of this decision or to appeal this decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office.
If the person concerned wishes to have a Deciding Officer review this decision, then they may provide additional medical evidence in support of this review.
As requested, a copy of the person's contribution record will issue direct by post to the person concerned.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
273. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Social Protection the total underspend or overspend against the estimate provided for school meals in 2021 and to date in 2022; the reason for the variation in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60034/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Meals Programme provides funding towards the provision of food services to some 1,600 schools and organisations benefitting 260,000 children. The objective of the programme is to provide regular, nutritious food to children who are unable, due to lack of good quality food, to take full advantage of the education provided to them. The programme is an important component of policies to encourage school attendance and extra educational achievement.
Budget 2022 provided €68.1 million for the programme with an additional €9m provided to allow access to all new DEIS schools from September 2022. Additional funding for the programme has been provided for 2023 bringing the total to €91.6m. This represents a 49% funding increase in the period since 2020.
In 2021, the original estimate was €65.1m with a supplementary estimate of €61.5m provided. Expenditure was €58.4m which was due to schools been closed for a period due to Covid 19 level 5 restrictions in the first quarter of 2021 and some schools deferring the commencement of the hot school meals.
For 2022, it is expected that expenditure on the school meals programe for the year will be in line with the estimate of €77.1m. The newly designated DEIS schools that can apply for the School Meals Programme from September 2022 had no previous experience regarding the provision of school meals and had a number of logistical and financial requirements to consider prior to submitting an application. This included identifying the delivery model that best suits their school and a supplier who can deliver to these requirements.
This resulted in the need for a lead-in time for some schools before submitting their application for funding. Officials have been liaising with schools regarding their participation in the scheme and there has been an increase in applications submitted in recent weeks.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
274. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Social Protection the population in the catchment area of each Intreo office in the country in tabular form. [60038/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI regret to inform the Deputy that my Department does not have the information requested on the total population in the catchment area of each Intreo centre.
The Department only collates information of the number of customers for each Intreo centre and can provide the Deputy with this information if requested.
275. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Social Protection the criteria for deciding to locate an INTREO office in a particular area. [60039/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra276. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Social Protection the criteria for making the decision to close an INTREO office in a particular area. [60040/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 275 and 276 together.
In regards to any decisions to open or close an Intreo Centre, there are no explicit criteria specified in making such a decision.
Intreo Centres are a single point of contact for all employment and income supports. The Centres, together with our Branch Offices, are designed to provide a streamlined approach, offering practical, tailored services and supports for jobseekers.
The development and provision of online services means that a growing number of customers, by choosing to avail of the www.MyWelfare.ie ., are accessing an increasing range of my Department's services without having to post a paper form or call into their local Intreo Centre.
I am satisfied that this arrangement and mix of services best suits the needs of our customers at present.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
277. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social Protection the contracts that have been granted without having to go to public tender; the companies that were granted these contracts and nature of the work involved; the qualifying criteria that was applied to any company awarded such a contract in 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60089/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe majority of contracts granted for DSP without having to go to public tender since 2020 (and including 2021 and 2022, year to date) were in response to the Covid-19 pandemic or lack of availability in the market, and are detailed as follows:
|
Name of Company |
Nature of Service |
Year |
Business Reason |
|
SAR Security Group |
Provision of security services |
2020 |
DSP's mini-competition was delayed due to staffing issues with providers as a result of the Covid pandemic. The single tender was awarded to the incumbent provider for a period of 4 months during the interim tender period. |
|
The Printed Image Ltd |
Supply of Covid-19 PPE equipment and supplies |
2020 |
DSP's contracted cleaning suppliers and PPE suppliers were not able to meet DSP's PPE orders at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, due to disruption of supply. We procured PPE, necessary to continue operations, via alternative suppliers. |
|
Metbell Ltd |
Supply of Covid-19 PPE equipment and supplies |
2020 |
As above |
|
J&C Hendrick Ltd |
Supply of Covid-19 PPE equipment and supplies |
2020 |
As above |
|
Codex Ltd |
Supply of Covid-19 PPE equipment and supplies |
2020 |
As above |
|
Energy Distribution |
Supply of Covid-19 PPE equipment and supplies |
2020 |
As above |
|
KOS Ergonomics |
Provision of In-person Ergonomic Assessments |
2022 |
DSP Health & Safety unit sought this service from the OGP contracted provider, Quadra. Quadra confirmed they were unable to supply this service until further notice due to their workload. DSP H&S sought and received quotes from 3 further suppliers, and selected KOS Ergonomics based on price, nationwide coverage and availability. |
|
Pelko, The Back Shop, KOS Ergonomics |
Advanced Ergonomic / Orthopaedic Chairs |
2022 |
Advanced Ergonomic/Orthopaedic Chairs are often specialist, customised items and DSP Health & Safety follow specific medical/ergonomic expert recommendations. Pelko are the OGP contracted chair supplier, and we purchase Advanced Ergonomic/Orthopaedic chairs from them as a default. Where a medical recommendation specifies a product (chair) from another supplier for a specialist solution, e.g. KOS Ergonomics, or Back Shop, we purchase from that supplier. |
- The qualifying criteria for the security contract was the ability to provide an integral service to the Department at the onset of Covid-19 with no gap in provision, allowing essential services to remain open during a changing environment of restrictions and requirements.
- The qualifying criteria for the PPE was the ability to immediately deliver an emergency product (PPE) for distribution across the Department to ensure essential services remained functioning during a time of high demand and low supply.
- The qualifying criteria for in-person ergonomic assessments was the ability to supply the service when the incumbent provider could not.
- The qualifying criteria for advanced ergonomic/orthopaedic chairs was the provision of specialised equipment required for users to function safely in their workspace.
278. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if pro-rata pension might be payable in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60129/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are a number of payments and pensions paid by my Department to people over State Pension Age. One of these is the State Pension (Contributory), qualification for which is based on a number of criteria, including that of a minimum of 520 qualifying social insurance contributions have been paid. For those who have paid the required contributions, these will be used in the calculation of their entitlements.
As the actuarial value of the State Pension is currently estimated at approximately €380,000, I believe it is reasonable to require people claiming a contributory pension to have made at least 10 years of paid contributions over the term of their working life, before qualifying for a payment.
Where a person reaches State Pension age and does not satisfy the conditions to qualify for a SPC or qualifies for less than the maximum rate, they may instead qualify for one of the following:
- The means-tested State Pension (Non-Contributory) (SPNC) which is a means-tested payment (based on their share of household means) with a maximum payment of 95% of the SPC; or
- An increase for a qualified adult (based on their own means), amounting up to 90% of a full rate SPC pension where their spouse has a contributory pension; or
- Where their spouse/civil partner is deceased, a widow's/widower's/civil partner's contributory pension, which they may claim either based on their spouse's or their own social insurance record. The qualifying conditions for this require fewer contributions paid (260) than the SPC and the current maximum personal rate for those aged 66 or over is €253.30, i.e. the same as the maximum rate of the SPC, with allowances (notably the Living Alone Allowance) payable where applicable.
Where contributors enter insurable employment, either as employees or self-employed, after they have attained the age of 56 and have no entitlement to the SPC or SPNC, then the pension element of the contributions paid by both employed and self-employed contributors may be refunded.
In September, I announced a series of landmark reforms to the State Pension system in response to the recommendations from the Pensions Commission. The set of measures represent the biggest ever structural reform of the Irish State Pension system.
One of the key measures is the introduction of a flexible pension system in Ireland. Under this new system, from January 2024, people will still be able to retire at 66 and draw-down their pension in exactly the same way as they can today. In addition, there will be new flexibility so that people may choose to defer their pension, work longer and receive a higher pension payment, if they wish.
The flexible State Pension system is about providing people with choice. People will decide for themselves what best suits their needs and circumstances. For example, in the case of a person who reaches age 66 and does not have sufficient contributions to qualify for a full pension, they will now have the option to work for longer to build up additional entitlements. If a person has less than 10 years PRSI reckonable paid contributions, they can use this period of deferral to establish entitlement. A person will also have the option to continue working between age 66 and 70 and receive an actuarially based increase in their weekly payment rate, should they choose to defer their State Pension.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
279. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if the refusal of an application for a disability allowance will be reviewed in the case of a person (details supplied); if the invalidity pension or disability allowance is more appropriate in this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60130/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraDisability Allowance (DA) is a weekly allowance paid to people with a specified disability who are aged 16 or over and under the age of 66. This disability must be expected to last for at least one year and the allowance is subject to a medical assessment, means test and Habitual Residency conditions
The person concerned submitted an application for DA on 30 July 2021.
Based on the evidence supplied this person’s application for disability allowance (DA) was disallowed on the grounds that they failed to supply the information, which was requested by this Department, to determine their eligibility. The person in question was notified in writing of this decision on 1 November 2021
I can confirm that the requested information was received by my department, and a review of this decision was carried out on 30 November 2022.
The person concerned has been awarded disability allowance with effect from 04 August 2021. The first payment will be made by his chosen payment method on 21 December 2022. Arrears of payment due from 04 August 2021 to 20 December 2022 will issue as soon as possible once any necessary adjustment is calculated and applied in respect of any overlapping payments.
Invalidity pension (IP) is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and who satisfy the pay related social insurance (PRSI) contribution conditions.
To qualify for IP a claimant must, inter-alia, have at least 260 (5 years) paid PRSI contributions since entering social insurance and 48 contributions paid or credited in the last or second last complete contribution year before the relevant date of their claim. Only PRSI classes A, E, H or S contributions are reckonable for IP purposes.
A claim for IP was received from the person concerned on 18 June 2021. The claim was refused on the grounds that the contribution conditions for the scheme were not satisfied. Specifically, the person concerned does not have the required 260 contributions paid since she entered social insurance. She was notified on 15 July 2021 of this decision, the reason for it and of her right of review and appeal. No request for a review or an appeal was received from the person concerned.
If the person concerned wishes to have a Deciding Officer review their IP application, then they may request a review of the IP decision and provide additional information regarding their period(s) of employment.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
280. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if the living alone allowance is payable in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60134/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraA living alone increase is an extra payment for people who live alone, aged 66 years or over, and receiving certain social welfare payments. These payments include State pension (contributory and non-contributory), Widow(er)’s or surviving partner’s contributory pension, Widow(er)’s pension under the occupational injuries benefit scheme, Incapacity supplement under the occupational injuries benefit scheme and Deserted wife’s benefit.
It is also payable to people living alone under age 66 who are in receipt of Disability allowance, Invalidity pension, Incapacity supplement and Blind pension.
As the person concerned is not in receipt of a qualifying payment, they are not eligible to receive a living alone increase.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
281. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if an appeal will be arranged in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60137/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraWorking Family Payment (WFP) is an income-tested weekly payment which provides additional financial support to employees on low earnings with children.
An application to renew WFP was received from the person concerned on 27th September 2022. A Deciding Officer reviewed the application and requested further information. The person concerned provided this information and requested that their rent, travel to work expenses, loan repayment and medical expenses for a dependent adult be taken into consideration in their income assessment.
WFP provides financial support for employees who have low earnings/income relative to their family size. The WFP rate payable is 60% of the difference between the average weekly family income and the relevant prescribed income limit.In order to qualify for WFP, a family's income must be below a prescribed limit which varies in accordance with the number of qualified children. Unfortunately for the person concerned, WFP does not consider any dependent members of the household other than qualified children. All family and household income is assessable for WFP and includes an applicant's average net weekly assessable earnings from employment plus any other income such as other social welfare payments, income from self-employment, etc. As WFP is an income-assessed scheme and does not include a means assessment, there is no provision in legislation to take into consideration household expenses.
The application was disallowed on 11th October 2022 as the weekly family income for the person concerned was not less than the prescribed income level for their family size (1 qualified child).
If the person concerned has a change in their financial circumstances or they satisfy the conditions for WFP later, they may reapply for WFP. They may also contact their local Intreo Office or check online at gov.ie for information on other social welfare schemes that their circumstances may entitle them to.
The person concerned has also been advised that they have a right to appeal this decision directly to the independent Chief Appeals Officer at: Social Welfare Appeals Office, FREEPOST, D'Olier House, D'Olier Street, Dublin 2, DO2 XY31 or by email to: swappeals@welfare.ie .
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
282. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) will have a decision on their application for carer's allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60142/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraCarer's allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a person who has such a disability that they require that level of care.
An application for CA was received from the person concerned on 26 August 2022.
It is a condition for receipt of CA that the applicant’s means are less than the statutory limit, which in this case is €275.10 weekly.
Means are any income belonging to the carer and their spouse, civil partner, or cohabitant, property, (except their own home) or an asset that could bring in money or provide them with an income, for example occupational pensions, or pensions or benefits from another country.
The evidence before the deciding officer included income from private pensions and capital. Following the means calculations and relevant disregards the person concerned was found to have means in excess of the statutory means limit of €275.10.
The application for CA was accordingly disallowed as the person concerned means were determined to exceed the statutory limit.
The person concerned was notified on 28 November 2022 of this decision, the reason for it and of their right of review and appeal.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
283. Deputy Matt Shanahan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the activities that his Department has engaged in to deliver additional accommodation opportunities for those recently migrating to Ireland (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60117/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince the outbreak of the war in Ukraine on 24 February, and the invoking of the Temporary Protection Directive by the European Union shortly afterwards, my Department has worked intensively as part of the cross-governmental response to the Ukraine crisis.
The operational challenges brought about by responding to the conflict are significant. Our country has never experienced an influx of displaced persons like the one that we have seen over the past months.
Ireland is now accommodating over 64,000 people between those fleeing Ukraine and International Protection applicants. This includes over 47,000 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) who have sought accommodation from the State and over 17,000 International Protection applicants currently in IPAS accommodation. This compares with 7,500 at the same time last year. My Department has sourced accommodation for the equivalent of the population of Waterford City in the last six months.
BOTP Accommodation
Overseeing provision of accommodation on this scale during this timeframe for all those who require it remains immensely challenging. The Government is resolute in its solidarity and support for Ukraine, and huge efforts are being made to source facilities that will provide those arriving in Ireland with safety and shelter.
Contracts with over 650 providers have been put in place with over 37,000 beds in hotels, hostels, commercial self-catering accommodation and certain other emergency and repurposed accommodation. Sporting facilities, army and tented facilities are also being used to provide shelter and security. Additional capacity has also been sourced and provided in cooperation with Local Authorities in the form of temporary accommodation and rest centres.
The scale of the response to this crisis has been unprecedented and Irish people have displayed a commendable level of generosity in their support, in their welcome for beneficiaries into their communities, and in pledges of accommodation.
To date just over 5,445 beneficiaries have been housed in pledged accommodation and this number increases every day through work of various implementing partners working on the ground. Every effort is being made to activate the small number of remaining suitable pledge offers where necessary vetting and inspection procedures are completed. The current target remains to house 6,000 arrivals into pledges. As of 25 November, over €8.4 million has been paid out to over 4,200 applicants in respect of approximately 9,300 temporary protection beneficiaries as part of the Annual Recognition Payment Scheme, which in addition to accommodation pledged through the Irish Red Cross, is also payable to hosts who have made private arrangements to accommodate Beneficiaries in their homes.
While managing the current challenges in accommodating so many people, my Department is also working hard on solutions that will allow us to shelter people from Ukraine in the time ahead. The Government is rolling out a rapid build modular housing programme to provide accommodation for Ukrainian families fleeing the war in their country. The rapid build modular homes will be highly energy efficient, durable units with a 60 year lifespan and the development of the sites will be conducted in an environmentally sustainable way. Now in progress, the programme aims to provide 500 rapid build homes to 2,000 Ukrainians, predominantly women and children, at several sites across Ireland.
The HSE has been notified of the proposed number of residents for each site and associated potential healthcare needs. The Department of Education is planning for the extra school places that may be needed.
As per the Government decision of 28 October, my Department is also contributing in helping to transition from an emergency response to a more mainstreamed approach in an attempt to maximise all existing capacity, bring greater consistency and ensure equity for all those who rely on State supports.
My Department has begun the process of compiling a searchable database of accommodation offers. We will conduct a review of all offers received and ensure a response issues to all, in so far as possible. We are also planning and developing a more streamlined process for managing offers, and will be rolling out a new portal and process where interested parties may make a renewed offer of properties. There will be clear criteria set down outlining the type of properties we will be seeking to procure, and this will be the only mechanism by which to make an offer.
IP Accommodation
The Department is availing of all suitable offers of accommodation made to us, including the use of office buildings and sports facilities, to address the accommodation shortfall and we are working urgently across Government and with agencies, NGOs and local authorities to bring new accommodation on board to meet the State’s humanitarian responsibilities.
In the immediate term, emergency centres have been opened in all parts of the country. There have been circa 40 accommodation locations utilised since January across 13 counties. In addition, The International Protection Procurement Service (IPPS) is sourcing vacant office buildings and state-owned properties in order to increase available accommodation. A number of these projects are currently being progressed.
In regard to longer-term needs, a republished tender process for the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) to provide more own-door accommodation closed on 8 November. The IPPS will begin site visits to potential locations shortly. It is expected that successful tenderers from this republication will be added to accommodation provider panels in Quarter 1 of 2023.
I trust this information is of assistance.
284. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of review officers appointed to review decisions under S.I. No. 230/2018 - European Communities (Reception Conditions) Regulations 2018, Article 20.(1)(a) and Article 20.(1)(d); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59905/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra285. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of review decisions issued under Article 20.(1)(a) and Article 20.(1)(d); the outcomes of each of those decisions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59906/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 284 and 285 together.
Under the Recast Reception Conditions Directive (SI 230 of 2018), the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) is legally required to provide material reception conditions in the form of accommodation and services to international protection applicants who seek it while their claim for international protection is being determined by the International Protection Office. I wish to confirm that to date no International Protection Applicant (IPA) has had material reception conditions withdrawn. As a consequence, a review process has yet to be invoked.
