Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
665. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) has been refused an additional needs payment for being in receipt of the fuel allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2503/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe purpose of an Additional Needs Payment (ANP) is to help meet essential expenditure which an eligible person could not reasonably be expected to meet from their weekly income.
Departmental records show that the person concerned applied for an ANP on 07/01/2025 to assist with the cost of home heating oil. This claim was disallowed on the basis that the person concerned is currently in receipt of Fuel Allowance. A letter issued to the person concerned on 21/01/2025 advising her of this outcome and affording her the opportunity to seek a review of the Designated Person’s (DP) decision.
Following the Deputy’s enquiry on behalf of the person concerned, a Reviewing Officer reviewed the claim and considering the circumstances of the case, upheld the original decision made by the DP on the basis that the cost of utility bills and heating costs are not unforeseen costs and therefore are expected to be paid from a person’s weekly household income. The person concerned was notified in writing of this review outcome on 31/01/2025.
Where any customer, including the person concerned has been impacted by Storm Éowyn, they may apply to the Department of Social Protection for the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme. The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme provides financial assistance to eligible households affected by a severe weather event.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
