Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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2069. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the basis on which an exceptional needs payment for a person (details supplied) has been refused due to undertaking prescribed rehabilitation training by a general practitioner; if the case will be examined; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28476/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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An application for an emergency needs payment in respect of the person concerned was refused under section 190(1) of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 which disqualifies persons who are in full-time education. Supplementary Welfare rules also require claimants who are fit for work, to be available for and genuinely seeking work.

If the person concerned is experiencing undue financial hardship, it is open to her to call to the Community Welfare Service in Naas to further discuss her circumstances with a designated officer.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.