Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
589. Deputy Mark Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will consider increasing the means-test threshold for the supplementary welfare allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33075/26]
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.
Means tests are a central part of any social welfare system in ensuring that limited resources are targeted at those who are most in need.
The means assessment rules for Supplementary Welfare Allowance reflect the role of the scheme as a support of ‘last resort’.
A review of means testing in the social protection system is currently under way in my Department. The purpose of the review of means testing is to look at the different means-tested schemes and to identify any issues in terms of the application of the respective means test.
The outcome of the review will inform decisions regarding any potential changes to means testing. All prospective changes to means testing arrangements will have to be considered in both an overall policy and budgetary context.
I trust this clarifies the position.
