Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 June 2025
597. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Social Protection whether illness benefit is available to an employed person with a long-term illness, also in receipt of disability allowance, whilst on extended sick leave; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34383/25]
View answerIt is always open for a person to apply for Illness Benefit and payment will be awarded if all the qualifying conditions are met. A person's Disability Allowance will cease payment if they are in receipt of Illness Benefit. However an applicant for Disability Allowance to whom Illness Benefit is payable may opt to forgo the Illness Benefit payment in order to receive Disability Allowance at a higher rate when adjustments have been made to take account of means, if any.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
