Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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163. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if the rate of illness benefit being paid to a person (details supplied) will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17669/16]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Under Social Protection Regulations, the rate payable on illness benefit claims is dependent on a person's average weekly earnings in the governing contribution year. For claims made in 2016 the governing contribution year is 2014.

The person concerned is in receipt of illness benefit from 30 May 2016. The rate of illness benefit payable is €147.30 per week which reflects their average weekly earnings in the 2014 governing contribution year.

If the person concerned is unable to meet their needs or the needs of their household, they may be entitled to supplementary welfare allowance and should contact my department's community welfare services at their local Intreo centre.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.