Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 November 2025
133. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will consider a provision to allow individuals in exceptional circumstance applying for a means tested payment to be assessed without their partner's income, in particular in cases of domestic abuse where a person may be trying to save money to leave their partner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62243/25]
View answerTackling domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is a major priority for the Government. The Programme for Government includes a number of commitments in this regard. Establishing a zero-tolerance approach to domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence is vital for safeguarding individuals and promoting a safer society. We will ensure the implementation of the actions in the Zero Tolerance Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence and develop a successor strategy.
While many of the Programme for Government commitments fall within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Justice and other Ministers, this is an issue that requires a whole of Government approach. For that reason, the Programme for Government also includes a commitment to “examine how the social protection system can better support people fleeing domestic violence.” My Department will progress this work, including exploring options as to how we can support the travel needs of people fleeing domestic violence. Officials undertaking this work will engage with stakeholders and will take on board lessons from other jurisdictions.
My Department already has provisions in places in the Rent Supplement Scheme to assist those fleeing domestic violence. Access to Rent Supplement is via a fast-track approval process to assist with short term accommodation needs. The standard Rent Supplement means test does not apply for an initial three-month period. After three months, a further three-month extension may be provided, subject to the usual rent supplement means assessment. The simplified means test ensures immediate access to this support.
I will ask my Department officials to consider the proposal outlined by the Deputy. Any prospective changes to means testing arrangements will have to be considered in both an overall policy and budgetary context.
