Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 May 2023
403. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Social Protection the steps she is taking to enable full-time carers who are also pensioners to access the State pension (non-contributory) €200 cost-of-living lump sum payment as well as the carer's allowance cost-of-living lump sum payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21346/23]
View answerThe Government is acutely aware of the effect that high energy prices and the cost of living are having on families, businesses and the most vulnerable.
In addition to the substantial package of supports provided in Budget 2023, earlier this year the Government announced a €470 million package of measures to help social protection recipients including families, pensioners, carers and people with disabilities.
The Spring Cost of Living Bonus is one of the range of measures put in place. It is one lump sum payment of €200 for each eligible person in receipt of a primary payment in their own right. The €200 lump sum payment was paid week commencing Monday 24th April 2023 to over 1.2 million people in receipt of long-term social welfare payments at a cost of approximately €250 million.
If a person receives more than one qualifying social welfare payment, they will receive only one €200 lump sum payment. Each eligible primary recipient of a social welfare payment receives one €200, regardless of the number of dependents (qualified adult or children) if any, or other social welfare payments.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
