Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 February 2023
268. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will issue on an application for fuel allowance by a person (details supplied) recently widowed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5863/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn application for Fuel Allowance was received from the person concerned on 08 September 2022.
The key role of the Department of Social Protection is to provide income support where an income need arises because of a particular contingency – be that illness, disability, caring or unemployment. The Department also recognises the need for a transition period during which people can grieve and plan for a life following the death of a family member.
Within the social welfare system, there are a number of supports for people who suffer a bereavement. In particular, there is an arrangement known as the six-weeks payment after death which allows for certain payments to continue to be made after a person dies. Where a person in receipt of a social welfare payment dies and there is an Increase for a Qualified Adult in payment, this payment continues for six weeks. In the case of the person concerned, the six weeks payment also included a lump sum payment of the Fuel allowance covering payment to the end of the current Fuel season.
The application for Fuel Allowance for the person concerned was awarded from 13 January 2023 with payment commencing at the start of the next Fuel Season. The telephone support allowance was awarded at the weekly rate of €2.50 from 13 January 2023.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
