Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 October 2024
376. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if consideration will be given to the awarding of basic allowance or appropriate award in the case a person (details supplied) who has a child with additional needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40930/24]
View answerThe Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) scheme which is the safety net within the overall social welfare system, helps eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependents. Supports provided under the SWA scheme can consist of a basic weekly payment, a weekly or monthly supplement in respect of certain expenses, as well as single Additional Needs Payments (ANP)s. The basic SWA provides immediate assistance for those in need who are awaiting the outcome of a claim or an appeal for a primary social welfare payment or do not qualify for payment under other State schemes.
According to the records of the Department, the person concerned applied for a basic SWA payment while a decision is pending on her Jobseekers Transitional Payment application. The most recent correspondence to the customer issued on 04/10/2024, requesting statements for accounts held in two financial institutions.
To date, the person concerned has not provided the outstanding documents requested. Once the required documents have been received, the claim will be reviewed promptly, and the customer will be advised of the outcome in writing.
Jobseeker’s Transitional Payment (JST) is a special arrangement under the Jobseeker’s Allowance scheme. It is a means-tested payment. Qualifying conditions for JST can be found here www.gov.ie/en/service/9c29ef-jobseekers-transitional-payment/#what-jobseekers-transitional-payment-is .
According to the records of the Department, the person concerned applied for JST payment on 19/09/2024. The most recent correspondence to the person concerned was by email on 09/10/2024 requesting the following:
• Confirmation if she is in receipt of any spousal maintenance.
• A self-assessment tax return for 2023 (not the Form 11).
• The last three months statements for accounts held in financial institutions.
To date, the person concerned has not provided the required documentation. Once the requested documents have been received, the claim will be progressed, and the customer will be informed of the decision.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
