Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 December 2022
250. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if an exceptional needs payment can issue in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [62899/22]
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 additional needs payments.
Under the SWA scheme, my Department can make additional needs payments to help meet expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income. This is an overarching term used to refer to exceptional and urgent needs payments, and certain supplements to assist with ongoing or recurring costs that cannot be met from the person’s own resources and are deemed to be necessary.
Payments are made at the discretion of the officers administering the scheme, taking into account the requirements of the legislation, and all the relevant circumstances of the case in order to ensure that the payments target those most in need of assistance.
According to the records of my Department, the person concerned has not applied for an Exceptional Needs Payment (ENP) for household repairs. Following the Deputy's representation, an ENP application pack has issued to the person by post.
The completed application and any supporting documentation can be returned by FREEPOST to P.O. Box 1107, Newbridge, Co. Kildare.
When the application is received, accompanied by the required supporting documentation, a Community Welfare Officer will then consider the claim and the person will be advised immediately of the outcome in writing.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
