Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 June 2025
343. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will be made on a HAS application submitted by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33446/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides assistance to households in the immediate aftermath of severe weather events under the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme (HAS) which was activated on Thursday, 23 January in advance of Storm Éowyn’s arrival.
The purpose of supports available under HAS 2 is to provide financial support to eligible householders whose primary dwelling i.e., their home only, was damaged by severe weather events. The scheme is designed to provide hardship alleviation, as opposed to compensation. HAS 2 support helps to make a person’s accommodation habitable again in the aftermath of a severe weather event and may include funding for work such as plastering, dry-lining, relaying of floors, electrical re-wiring and painting as well as the replacement of white goods, basic furniture items and other essential household items.
Where financial assistance is required for structural damage and the estimated cost as outlined in builder’s quotes provided by the customer is of a high value amount, the case will be referred to the Loss Adjusters appointed by the Department of Social Protection.
According to the records of the Department, the person concerned submitted a HAS 2 application, and his claim was referred to the Loss Adjusters who have just recently finalised their report. The Department is currently reviewing this report, and a decision is expected to issue to the person in writing this week.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
