Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
664. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection if social welfare recipients can be refused an additional needs payment to help cover the increased cost of fuel or heating because they are in receipt of the fuel allowance, given the cost of fuel has increased and the fuel allowance does not meet the current cost, nor is it set to meet the cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2502/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme, my department may make Additional Needs Payments to help meet essential expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income or other personal and household resources.
The scheme is demand led and payments are made at the discretion of the officers administering the scheme, taking into account the requirements of the legislation and all the relevant circumstances of the case in order to ensure that the payments target those most in need of assistance.
The decision process involves consideration of the need presented and the ability of the person and their household to meet that need. This entails an assessment, as opposed to a specific means test, of an applicant’s weekly household income, their savings and investments, their outgoings and the type of assistance needed. While receipt of Fuel Allowance does not specifically disqualify a person from receipt of an Additional Needs Payment, consideration is given to any State supports that may already be available to the person.
Furthermore, under the scheme, a Heating Supplement may be paid to assist people in certain circumstances that have exceptional heating costs due to ill health, infirmity or a medical condition and are unable to meet those costs out of household income. Heating supplement is not restricted to the fuel season and can be paid throughout the year.
Any person who considers that they may have an entitlement to an Additional Needs Payment is encouraged to contact their local community welfare service. There is a National Community Welfare Contact Centre in place - 0818-607080 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office. In addition, applications can be made online via www.mywelfare.ie.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
