Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
82. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Social Protection if time spent acting as a carer can be applied when calculating illness benefit; if time spent caring for children can be applied when calculating illness benefit; if it is possible to apply this retrospectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46366/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIllness Benefit is the main income support provided by my Department to those who cannot work due to illness of any kind and who are covered by social insurance. Eligibility for Illness Benefit is based on medical and contribution conditions and it is paid from the Social Insurance Fund. Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) paid under Classes A, E, H and P count towards Illness Benefit. Claimants must have a minimum of 104 social insurance contributions and must meet other conditions in relation to when these were paid and whether they are paid or credited contributions.
Carers are entitled to credits when in receipt of Carer’s Allowance or Carer’s Benefit. These credits can be used along with paid contributions for the purpose of qualifying for Illness Benefit. It should be noted that, as a general rule, people in receipt of full-rate Carer’s Allowance or Carer's Benefit cannot be in receipt of an overlapping second payment, for example Illness Benefit, at the same time.
Given that Illness Benefit may be paid for up to two years, subject to the other scheme conditions being met, I consider the current qualifying requirements to be proportionate and appropriate.
In circumstances where people are ill but do not qualify for Illness Benefit, my Department provides means tested supports under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme. An Additional Needs Payment may also be available to people who have expenses that they cannot pay from their weekly income.
If there is a particular case of concern for the Deputy, I would ask that it is brought to the attention of my department for advice.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
