Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 December 2022
396. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Donegal has an entitlement to any cost-of-living payments announced in budget 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61776/22]
View answerFuel Allowance is a means-tested payment to assist householders on long-term social welfare payments, or equivalent from an EU/country with which Ireland has a Bilateral Agreement, towards the cost of their winter heating needs.
The person concerned applied for Fuel Allowance on 18 October 2022. I am pleased to inform the Deputy the person concerned was awarded Fuel allowance with effect from 21 October 2022. The person concerned has been notified in writing of this decision.
As part of the overall social welfare Budget 2023 package of €2.2 billion, I announced an additional cost of living payment of €400 for qualified Fuel Allowance recipients. This additional cost-of-living payment was payable to Fuel Allowance recipients for week commencing 14 November 2022. As the person concerned will receive arrears of Fuel Allowance from 21 October 2022, the additional cost-of-living payment of €400 will be included in their arrears.
The customer concerned is also in receipt of Free Travel and the Household Benefits Package, comprising a Free Television Licence and an Electricity Allowance valued at approximately €35.00 per month.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
