Mick Barry (Cork North Central, Solidarity)
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505. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the reason persons in receipt of illness benefit do not receive a Christmas bonus; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51913/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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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, is not a qualifying payment for the purpose 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 Allowance scheme. Application may be made to the Community Welfare Services at the local Intreo Centre.