Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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261. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the extent to which a person (details supplied) has remaining contributions to facilitate entitlement to jobseeker's benefit; her views on whether the legislation in place accurately designates a plot of land such as a farm; if in such a case the person is assessed with means derived from the capital or the rental value of such a plot; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32041/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned does satisfy the contribution requirements to qualify for jobseeker’s benefit, albeit at a reduced rate with reference to level of remuneration they received in their last employment. Taking this into account the department has sought to ascertain, given the person’s circumstances, which payment would be more advantageous to the customer to receive, jobseeker's allowance, jobseeker's benefit or farm assist.

To this end the person concerned met with a Social Welfare Inspector two weeks ago and was asked to return outstanding information in order to establish eligibility with regard to availability and means. This information was supplied to the Inspector earlier this week and they are now in a position to complete their report and submit it to the Deciding Officer.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.