Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Notwithstanding the ruling on the amendments, we are of the opinion that there needs to be some flexibility on qualifying payments. We tabled an amendments to section 8 which states, “(3) Where a qualified adult as defined under this section is temporarily resident outside the state in order to provide care for an ill relative, the provisions as outlined under this section shall not apply.”.

Section 8 sets out the rules for those who are absent from the State. Under section 8(2)(b) a new subsection (6A) provides that State benefits "shall not be payable for any period during which the qualified adult is — (a) resident, whether temporarily or permanently, outside the State, or (b) undergoing imprisonment or detention in legal custody.”

There is a need for some flexibility because a situation could arise where a person is temporarily resident outside the State, providing care for an ill relative or other legitimate reason that removes him or her from the State for a short period. What are the Minister's views in that regard?