Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 April 2024
392. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if a decision on a rent supplement application (details supplied) by a person who had to leave the family home will be reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17347/24]
View answerThe RS scheme provides short-term income support to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source. The scheme ensures that those who were renting, but whose circumstances have changed due to temporary loss of employment, can continue to meet their rental commitments.
Supports from this Department are not intended to cover circumstances where another Government Department or Agency has the primary responsibility. The responsibility for the provision of rent support to those with a long-term housing need has transferred from the Department of Social Protection to the local authorities. Persons with a long-term housing need should contact their local authority where information is available regarding suitable housing supports including the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).
According to Departmental records, the person concerned applied for RS on 14/03/2024. This claim was disallowed on the basis that the person is residing in an area designated for Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) and does not meet the qualifying criteria for RS. A letter advising the person concerned of this outcome was issued on 10/04/2024.
If the person is at risk of homelessness, it is recommended that they contact the homeless HAP section in their local council in the first instance who will be able to offer advice in relation to their supports.
It is open to the person concerned to request an appeal of this decision in writing, including any facts/evidence/documentation in support of their case, to the Social Welfare Appeals Office, D'Olier House, D'Olier Street , Dublin , D02 XY3. The Social Welfare Appeals office operates independently of this Department.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
