Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2024
281. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite the decision on an application for carer's allowance (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27935/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraCarer’s allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a child or an adult who has such a disability that as a result they require that level of care.
An application for CA was received from the person concerned on 25 January 2024.
It is a condition for the receipt of CA that the person being cared for must have such disability that they require full-time care and attention.
This is defined as requiring from another person, continual supervision, and frequent assistance throughout the day in connection with normal bodily functions or continual supervision in order to avoid danger to him or herself and be likely to require that level of care for at least twelve months.
As part of the decision process, the application was referred for the professional opinion of a Department Medical Assessor (MA). The claim was disallowed as the Deciding Officer, having regard to the opinion of the MA, decided that the information supplied did not show that the care recipient required full time care.
The person concerned was notified of this decision in writing on 12 February. They were also notified of their right to have the decision reviewed (where further information is available) or to appeal the decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
