Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 October 2024
123. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when jobseeker's allowance or other appropriate allowance might be restored in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39597/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraJobseeker’s Allowance (JA) is a means-tested payment made to people who are unemployed and who do not qualify for Jobseeker’s Benefit (JB) or who choose to apply for JA instead of JB. A means test is an assessment of all of the applicant’s household income, savings, shares, investments, or property that they own, apart from their own home. A means test will also include any income that their spouse, civil partner or cohabitant has. According to the records of my department, the person’s JA claim was disallowed as they failed to provide details of all income that their family is receiving. The person concerned has appealed the decision to disallow their claim. This decision was reviewed and upheld by a Deciding Officer and the file has been sent to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office. Whilst waiting on the outcome of the appeal, the person concerned can apply for a basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA). The SWA scheme is the safety net within the overall social welfare system which helps eligible people in the State, whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependents. Supports provided under the SWA scheme can consist of a basic weekly payment, a weekly or monthly supplement in respect of certain expenses, as well as single Additional Needs Payments (ANPs). The basic SWA provides immediate assistance for those in need who are awaiting the outcome of a claim or an appeal for a primary social welfare payment or do not qualify for payment under other State schemes. SWA payments are means tested and made at the discretion of the Community Welfare Officers administering the scheme, considering the requirements of the legislation and all the relevant circumstances of the case. If the person concerned is experiencing financial difficulties, pending the outcome of their appeal, they can apply for assistance by completing a SWA1 form and submitting all relevant information in support of their claim. This form is available in all Intreo Centres and Branch Offices and can also be requested by calling the National Community Welfare Service freephone line at 0818 60 70 80 or at www.eforms.gov.ie/en/forms/5. On receipt of a completed application form and supporting documentation, the person’s claim will be assessed, and they will be advised of the outcome in writing. Information on all schemes and payments administered by my Department can be found at www.gov.ie. I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
