Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 December 2023
470. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection if there are plans to compensate families with child benefit payments who have children who turn 18 years between now and September 2024 and are in full-time education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54685/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education was one of my key priorities as part of Budget 2024.
With many children now starting primary school at age 5, together with the increase in pupils doing transition year, there has been an increase in the number of 18-year-olds still in secondary education. I believe the extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education is a long-term change for the better and will support families across Ireland into the future.
This is a significant change to the Child Benefit scheme, which will require technical and operational changes to the social welfare system before implementation. Therefore the change will take effect from September 2024. Where a child in full time education turns 18 in the meantime they will be covered by the extension from September 2024 until they turn 19. It is usual for changes to the social welfare system to take effect from a future date and the question of a compensation payment to cover the intervening period does not arise.
I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
