Bernard Durkan
Question:100. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25857/24]
View answerThursday, 13 June 2024
Questions (100)
Written answers
My Department provides a range of income supports for people who are parenting alone including the Jobseeker’s Transitional Payment.
Jobseeker’s Transitional Payment (JST) is a means-tested payment. A person may qualify for this payment if they do not live with a spouse, civil partner or cohabitant and their youngest child is between 7 and 14 years old.
The person concerned was awarded a JST payment on 05/08/2021 and, as of 30/05/2024, was in receipt of a weekly rate of €253, made up of a personal rate of €232 and an increase for one child of €46 less means due to child maintenance of €25.
Following a recent change in legislation, with effect from 06/06/2024, the child maintenance portion of any maintenance a person receives is no longer assessable as means. For this reason, the person’s claim has been reviewed and their rate of JST payable, from 06/06/2024, was increased to €278. The decision was made in accordance with Section 8 of the Social Welfare and Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024.
The person concerned was informed of this decision in a letter dated 30/05/2024 and the first payment of €278 was paid on 06/06/2024.
Please note that this Jobseeker’s Transitional Payment is in the sole name of the person concerned and it is paid weekly into the bank account nominated by the person concerned.
Information on all schemes and payments administered by my Department can be found at www.gov.ie.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.