Written answers

Thursday, 28 February 2008

Department of Social and Family Affairs

Social Welfare Benefits

5:00 pm

Photo of Michael CreedMichael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 133: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will ensure that persons who are not able to present themselves for collection of their social welfare entitlements due to physical disability or other acceptable circumstances are not caused undue hardship by the introduction of the new social welfare swipe card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8551/08]

Photo of Martin CullenMartin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The current range of payment options offered by my Department to customers' includes payment at a local post office or to a bank or building society account; or certain credit unions that have been authorised by the banking and credit union regulators. Customers opt for a particular payment method having regard to their own personal circumstances.

The Department is implementing a three year strategy to change paper based payment instruments to electronic payments at post offices and financial institutions. The programme is being implemented on a phased basis to coincide with book renewal production schedules and as personalised payable order books expire.

The replacement of books with swipe cards will have no impact on customers paid at post offices. Customers will simply present their Social Services Card and sign for their payment in the normal way. An Post and the Irish Postmaster's Union (IPU) are committed to assisting customers in the use of cards for collecting their payment.

For those customers who cannot collect their payment in person, the Department is putting arrangements in place to allow a nominated person collect their payment using a Social Services card.

Photo of John McGuinnessJohn McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 134: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if rent allowance will be approved in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Carlow, in view of their urgent need and the medical circumstances in the case. [8650/08]

Photo of Martin CullenMartin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Health Service Executive has advised that the persons concerned are currently in receipt of a rent supplement of €160.07 per week. The community welfare officer advised that if they wish to source accommodation, in excess of prescribed rent limits, they should contact the community welfare service in the area in which they intend to reside. The community welfare officer will make a decision on their entitlement to increased rent supplement, in light of their particular circumstances.

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