Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
717. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection he will review correspondence (details supplied); if he will provide an update on the appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14775/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department received an application for Illness Benefit from the applicant, on the 25th January 2026. Unfortunately, the applicant did not qualify for payment of Illness Benefit as they are in receipt of Disability Allowance.
A letter issued to the person on the 25th January 2026 provided them with the full details of this decision.
Disability Allowance is payable in addition to Disablement Benefit, Working Family Payment, Child Benefit and Death Benefit. No other benefit is payable with Disability Allowance to or in respect of the same person, in respect of the same period.
An applicant for Illness Benefit to whom Disability Allowance is payable (but at a reduced rate of payment) may opt to forgo the Disability Allowance to receive Illness Benefit providing they satisfy all qualifying conditions. The person must close their Disability Allowance claim in the first instance if they wishes to apply for Illness Benefit.
Should the applicant wish to claim Disability Allowance at a later date they will need to reapply when the Illness Benefit claim ceases.
In relation to the person's appeal, I can confirm that this is being dealt with. The appeal was received into my Department on the 18th February 2026. The Deciding Officer will be in contact with the applicant when all the information is reviewed.
If the person is in urgent need of financial assistance, it is open for them to contact the Community Welfare Officer in their local Intreo office to enquire about assistance under the means-tested Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
