Departmental Schemes

Tuesday, 1 April 2025

Questions (505)

Micheál Carrigy

Question:

505. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Social Protection the basis on which an application to the humanitarian assistance scheme was refused in the case of an elderly couple from County Longford (details supplied); the reason the application was deemed ineligible on the grounds of late submission, despite recent statements in Dáil Éireann suggesting the scheme remains open; if a review or appeal process is available to applicants in such cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15225/25]

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Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme (HAS), administered by my department through the Community Welfare Service (CWS), was activated on 23 January 2025 to assist householders affected across the country by Storm Éowyn.

According to the records of my Department, the person concerned applied for a HAS stage 1 payment to assist with the additional costs incurred as a result of Storm Éowyn. In recognition of the unprecedented nature and extent of the event that was Storm Éowyn, Stage 1 applications have been accepted for a longer period after the onset of the storm. I have been advised by my Department Officials that the claim of the person concerned has been reviewed and they have been awarded a payment towards the additional costs incurred as a result of the enduring power outages. The person concerned has been notified of this outcome and payment has issued to their nominated bank account.

I trust this clarifies the matter.