Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

One of the key points I asked for was clarification that no current claims will be suspended during the review. It is very important that the Minister of State has provided that commitment, on behalf of the Minister for Social Protection. It will be welcomed by thousands of parents in receipt of domiciliary care allowance who are fearful of the review.

I am still seeking an answer on the fact that three NGOs will be represented on the review group. Above and beyond consultation, that ensures there will be representatives of parents groups sitting around the table. I am eager to work out how they will be selected so they are real-life parents, as Deputy Regina Doherty suggested, who have been in receipt of domiciliary care allowance or are experiencing issues with it.

I welcome the fact the review will be completed in the autumn. The domiciliary care allowance is paid to children with extra care needs. The issue with the current system is that it does not recognise extra care needs that become apparent behind closed doors. When examining the application process and the application form, it is important to consider children with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder.

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