Written answers

Tuesday, 19 July 2011

Department of Social Protection

Social Welfare Code

10:00 pm

Photo of James BannonJames Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 284: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she plans to carry out a review of rent allowance provision prior to budget 2011, in view of abuses of the social welfare system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21282/11]

Photo of Joan BurtonJoan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Supplementary welfare allowance, which includes rent supplement, is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare services division of the Health Service Executive (HSE).

The prevention of fraud and abuse of the social welfare system is an integral part of the day to day work of the Department and the community welfare service. In this regard, all staff engaged in claims processing are concerned with preventing and detecting fraud and abuse. Controls are exercised at both the initial claim stage and at subsequent stages during the claim life-cycle. Claims are reviewed on a regular and targeted basis.

From 1 January 2011, community welfare service staff have been seconded to this Department until the end of September 2011. During this period, these staff will remain employees of the HSE but are subject to the general direction and control of the Minster for Social Protection. From 1 October 2011 it is intended that the staff of the CWS will be transferred fully to the Department.

The transfer of community welfare service to the Department and the integration of services are presenting opportunities to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of delivery of current services. The Department is developing further control initiatives in respect of rent supplement and other social welfare schemes arising from these opportunities. All budgets will be critically examined in advance of Budget 2012.

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