Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
742. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Social Protection if his Department has conducted an assessment on the strain on the social welfare system from asylum-related arrivals from 2022 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38972/26]
View answerMy Department plays a significant role in alleviating financial hardship through income supports, while its activation and employment services promote social inclusion and connectedness by supporting access to education, training, and employment. The importance of poverty proofing across the Department’s schemes in ensuring that supports are effectively targeted at those most at risk of disadvantage is also recognised.
Programmes and income supports are demand led and access to such supports is based on eligibility and need. The entitlements of people, including people applying for temporary or international protection under the International Protection Act, who seek supports are set out in legislation. Expenditure on these supports is provided for within the Department’s overall voted budget, and the Department continuously monitors all areas of expenditure as part of its standard budgetary management processes.
I trust this clarifies that matter for the Deputy.
