My Department provides income supports for those unable to work due to illness or disability, both social insurance and means tested schemes.
Invalidity Pension is a social insurance scheme. Eligibility is based on PRSI contributions and medical condition. In order to qualify, the person must have been incapable of work for at least 12 months and be likely to be incapable of work for at least another 12 months or must be permanently incapable of work.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) provides free home energy upgrades to homeowners who get certain social welfare payments on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications. These upgrades help improve the energy efficiency and warmth of a home and are also known as the Warmer Homes Scheme.
One of the criteria for qualifying for the Warmer Homes Scheme includes being in receipt of the Fuel Allowance. A person who is in receipt of Invalidity Pension can apply for the Fuel Allowance scheme where they must satisfy a means test and meet all other required conditions to qualify.
Therefore, those in receipt of Invalidity Pension and Fuel Allowance may qualify for the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Warmer Homes Scheme.
Any further queries regarding the Warmer Homes Scheme should be directed to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
