Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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51. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the severe hardship suffered by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if in such circumstances priority might be given to their housing situation and payment of any arrears that might be owing to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2069/15]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Following the previous response to the Deputy regarding her case the person concerned contacted the nominated Intreo Centre on 22^ndDecember 2014 to make an application for one parent family payment. On examination of her circumstances it was established that she did not meet the eligibility criteria for this scheme under current legislation, and was advised that it would be more appropriate for her to apply for a jobseeker’s allowance transition payment. This scheme is specifically designed to meet the needs of persons re-engaging with the work force who have previously been in receipt of one parent family payment.

An initial appointment was arranged for the person concerned for 12^thJanuary 2015 which she attended. However, as she did not have the required documentation on her possession to proceed with her claim a further appointment has been arranged for 29^thJanuary 2015. In the meantime the person concerned is continuing to receive supplementary welfare allowance in respect of herself and her child from the Department while this matter is being progressed.