Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
354. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will examine a supplementary welfare allowance case (details supplied); and if his Department will work to resolve this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33613/26]
View answerBasic Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) may provide immediate assistance for those in need who are awaiting the outcome of a claim or an appeal for a primary social welfare payment or for those who do not qualify for a payment under other State schemes. Basic SWA is administered by Community Welfare Officers (CWOs) in the Community Welfare Services (CWS), considering the requirements of the legislation and all the relevant circumstances of the case and is a means tested payment. The means test assesses all household income, savings, shares, investments, or property owned (apart from the applicant’s home, where occupied by the owner).
According to the records of my department, the person concerned applied for basic SWA on 09/10/2025. Following an assessment of their application, it was determined that they did not qualify for a basic SWA as their weekly household earnings were in excess of the SWA rate appropriate to payable to them based on their family size and circumstances. A letter advising the person concerned of this decision and affording them the opportunity to seek a review and/or an appeal issued to them in writing on 13/11/2025.
No request for a review of this outcome was received, however, the person concerned did submit an appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office (SWAO). The Social Welfare Appeals Office operates under the aegis of the Department of Social Protection however the appeals officers work independently of the Department are not bound by the original decisions of the Deciding Persons.
I can confirm that the appeal for the person concerned was upheld and the basic SWA payment has been awarded. The person concerned will receive their first payment and any arrears owed in 3 – 4 working days. A letter advising the person concerned of this outcome and outlining any associated conditions of payment will issue to the person concerned in writing shortly.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
