Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 905: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if it is the case that between 1999 and 2009 the number of persons on disability allowance has increased from 45,000 to 110,000; the reason that in just ten years there has been such an increase; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39390/09]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The numbers in receipt of Disability Allowance have increased from 50,431 at the end of 1999 to some 98,898 at the end of September 2009. A review of the Disability Allowance scheme, currently underway, has sought to identify the causes for this increase. While that review has not been finalised, the evidence suggests that the increase in the numbers claiming Disability Allowance is attributable to a range of factors. These factors include demographic changes; progressive amendments to the means-testing arrangements for the scheme; the extension of entitlement to Disability Allowance to persons resident full-time in institutions; and migration from other welfare schemes. It is likely also that changes in the medical sphere such as, for instance, improved diagnoses will have played a role in the increase in numbers availing of the scheme.

While any increase in the numbers having recourse to welfare supports is a matter for concern, it is important to recognise that the Disability Allowance scheme is designed to meet the income maintenance needs of people who are ill and people with disabilities and their dependents in ways that recognise their diverse needs, by way both of providing income supports and encouraging and enabling the take-up of employment, training, education and other self development opportunities, where appropriate.