Robert Dowds (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Social Protection if the amount due on the mortgage every month can be used to offset rental income for the purposes of claiming means tested social welfare payments, in particular jobseeker's allowance. [55224/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Social welfare legislation provides that the yearly value of “property owned but not personally used or enjoyed” is assessable for means testing purposes. Property for this purpose includes: i. Money invested in a bank, building society or other financial institution; ii. The current market value of stocks and shares of every description, and iii. Houses and premises owned by a claimant which may or may not be put to commercial use (including property which is rented out).

However, it does not include property such as the home or, for example, a premises used by the claimant in carrying out a business.

For assessment purposes, the current market value of the property is established as well as the amount of any outstanding mortgages on that property. The balance (market value less outstanding mortgage) is assessed by reference to a formula. Where the current market value is less than the outstanding mortgage, no assessment is made. Accordingly, it is the value of the outstanding mortgage which is taken into account as distinct from the interest payments on that mortgage.

In establishing the current market value of a property, the Department may make enquiry of the State Valuation Office. Alternatively, the market value may be established through receipt of a reasonable current valuation from a registered auctioneer, with reference to the purchase price and date of purchase of the property or, alternatively, the inspector may agree a valuation with a customer having regard to the type and location of the individual property and prevailing market values in that area.

The current market value of a property is the best estimate of what would be achievable if the property was offered for sale. Such an estimate will have regard to reductions in prices over recent years.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she will review the jobseeker's allowance payment in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare, who is now working maximum one day per week; the amount the applicant is receiving per week in respect of this payment and the way this figure was reached; if she will re-examine the arrears that were issued in the case and set out the way in which they were calculated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55229/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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A review of the jobseeker’s allowance claim of the person concerned will be undertaken and the person concerned will be informed of the outcome once the review is completed.