Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
648. Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan asked the Minister for Social Protection for an update on a disability allowance application for person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2329/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraDisability Allowance (DA) is a weekly allowance paid to people with a specified disability who are aged 16 or over and under the age of 66. This disability must be expected to last for at least one year and the allowance is subject to a medical assessment, a means test and habitual residency conditions.
I confirm that my department received an application for DA from the person concerned on 05 July 2021 and they were awarded with effect from 07 July 2021 at a reduced personal rate due to means derived from their spouse’s employment.
The person concerned requested a review of their DA decision on 20 September 2024 due to a change in their circumstances. Based on information received, a review of the DA claim of the person concerned was undertaken.
As part of the review, on 04 December 2024, the person concerned was requested to supply financial records and details of any other income they or their spouse may have. I can confirm that the requested information was received on 12 December 2024.
Following a review of this case and the information received, the person concerned has been assessed with nil weekly means, entitling them to an increased to the maximum personal rate of DA with effect from 25 September 2024, with the first payment of their new rate commencing on 29 January 2025. The person concerned was notified of the decision via correspondence dated 20 January 2025.
Arrears of payment due from 25 September 2024 to 28 January 2025 will issue with their payment on 29 January 2025.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
