Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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131. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) is entitled to the Christmas bonus in view of the fact their long-term social protection payment was recently changed to a temporary payment due to unforeseen ill health issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40263/16]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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The Christmas bonus is payable to persons who are in receipt of long term social welfare payments. Illness Benefit is primarily a short term scheme and, as such, has never been a qualifying payment for the purpose of the Christmas bonus; recipients of long term disability payments are eligible.

The person concerned is in receipt of Illness Benefit since 31 October 2016. As this is a short term benefit, the person concerned is not eligible for payment of the Christmas bonus.

A person who finds that their means are insufficient to meet their needs may be eligible for assistance under the Supplementary Welfare Allowances Scheme. Application may be made to the Community Welfare Services at the local Intreo Office.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.