Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 February 2026
439. Deputy Mark Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection if the Government will consider extending and reforming a social protection payment (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11150/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme is the safety net within the overall social welfare system in that it provides assistance to eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependents.
Under the scheme, my Department may award a supplement to assist with on going or recurring costs that cannot be met from the person's own resources and are deemed to be necessary. This can include a Heating Supplement where a person has need for additional heating due to ill health or infirmity. These payments are available through our Community Welfare Officers. Heating Supplement is not restricted to the fuel season and can be paid throughout the year.
Heating Supplements are payable at the discretion of the officers administering the scheme. All the relevant circumstances of the case are taken into account in order to ensure that the payments target those most in need of assistance.
I wish to assure the Deputy that the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme is kept under review to ensure that it continues to support those most in need of assistance.
Department officials have ongoing engagement with relevant stakeholders outlining the eligibility criteria and application process for the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme, including the Heating Supplement. Department officials have also recently distributed information on Additional Needs Payments and the Heating Supplement to the organisations represented on the Department’s Disability Consultative Forum.
Any person who considers that they may have an entitlement to a Heating Supplement 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.
I trust this clarifies the issue for the Deputy.
