Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
361. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection the way in which he intends to project demand for the emergency response payment for future budget allocations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33843/26]
View answer362. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection if renters whose essential personal items needed for immediate use (as per Stage 1) are destroyed as a result of weather events must rely on their landlord to make the ERP application on their behalf within the seven day time limit; if he will clarify the procedure for renters and landlords as regards stage 1, 2 and 3; if he will clarify, in particular, the protocol for instances where landlords do not submit an application within seven days of the end of such a weather event; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33844/26]
View answer364. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection for a clear and comprehensive definition of the 'reduced and tapered level of support'; the way in which amounts will be calculated; the way in which it will be accessed; the protocols used to determine where and when they will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33846/26]
View answer365. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will elaborate on the note provided to members as regards the emergency response payment; if he will give clear examples of the protocol outlined when the person has opted not to insure the property; the way in which this protocol is applied in different scenarios; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33847/26]
View answer366. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection to share his protocol as to what does and does not count as an inessential or luxury item; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33848/26]
View answer367. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection if any support will be provided to those who apply for stage 2 or 3 of the scheme but whose dwellings are deemed 'beyond repair'; if he has given consideration to relocation support payments in such cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33849/26]
View answer368. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection if he has given consideration to extending the seven calendar day deadline to apply for Stage 1 of the ERP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33851/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 361, 362, 364, 365, 366, 367 and 368 together.
The Emergency Response Payment assists in minimising hardship by providing financial support to people whose homes are damaged from flooding and severe weather events and who need help to meet emergency costs for essential needs, household items and structural repair.
To the end of March 2026, some €27.45 million had been spent under the scheme since 2009. As the scheme is demand-led, funding is made available under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance for emergency needs.
I wish to assure the Deputy the scheme is kept under review to ensure that it continues to support those most in need of assistance.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
