Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 February 2026
164. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will review correspondence (details supplied) and address the question referred therein; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15210/26]
View answerWithin the social welfare system, there are a number of supports for people who suffer a bereavement. In particular, there is an arrangement known as the six-weeks payment after death which allows for certain payments to continue to be made after a person dies. However it only applies where the deceased had a surviving spouse, civil partner or cohabitant and therefore does not apply in this instance
Any arrears of Bereaved Partner's Pension due up to date of death are paid to the executor of the estate or the person who paid the funeral bill. Arrears have now issued to the person concerned and payment was lodged into her bank account on the 20th February 2026. A letter to that effect has issued to the person concerned.
There is an additional needs payment that is available to people who are responsible for funeral expenses, which they cannot meet from their own financial resources. Any person who considers they may have an entitlement is encouraged to contact their local community welfare service. There is a National Community Welfare Contact Centre in place - 0818-607080 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office.
I trust the above clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
