In response to the ongoing cost of living pressures, my Department is spending approximately €1.2 billion in one-off measures during the period between the Budget and the end of the year to help individuals and families through this difficult period.
These measures include the following lump sum payments:
- €400 Fuel Allowance lump sum
- Double Child Benefit
- €500 Working Family Payment
- €200 Living Alone Allowance lump sum
- €500 Disability Support Grant
- €500 Carer's Support Grant
In addition, an Autumn Cost of Living Payment was paid last month, and a Christmas Bonus will be paid in December. For recipients of the Autumn and Christmas Bonus payments, including those receiving One-Parent Family Payment and Jobseeker's Transitional payment, the amount of the bonus is 100% of their normal weekly welfare payment (the minimum payment is €20).
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.