Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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552. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the eligibility for fuel allowance in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43388/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned submitted an application for Illness Benefit commencing 6 March 2017, but did not satisfy the pay related social insurance (PRSI) contribution conditions.

Although this claim was awarded, no payment was due. The person concerned is currently in receipt of a Supplementary Welfare Allowance payment.

Generally speaking, subject to some other conditions, the fuel allowance is payable to persons who are receiving certain long term social welfare payments. Illness benefit and Supplementary Welfare Allowance are not regarded as long term payments and, accordingly, the fuel allowance is not payable with them.

Disability Allowance is a means tested payment where a person has a disability which is expected to last for at least twelve months. Fuel allowance is payable with this benefit. The person concerned might like to consider making an application for Disability Allowance – application forms are available in the local .

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.