Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 December 2023
150. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason the extension in child benefit to those aged 18 years in full-time employment has been delayed until September 2024 and will not be introduced in January; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55597/23]
View answerThe extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education was one of my key priorities as part of Budget 2024.
With many children now starting primary school at age 5, together with the increase in pupils doing transition year, there has been an increase in the number of 18-year-olds still in secondary education. I believe the extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education is a long-term change for the better and will support families across Ireland into the future.
This is a significant change to the Child Benefit scheme which will require technical and operational changes to the social welfare system before implementation. Therefore, the change will take effect from September 2024. Where a child in full time education turns 18 in the meantime they will be covered by the extension from September 2024 until they turn 19.
I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
