Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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900. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection to outline the eligibility for the fuel allowance in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30875/18]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Fuel allowance is a means-tested payment to assist those on long-term social welfare payments with their heating costs. Only one allowance is paid per household. Eligibility is subject to a household means test and other qualifying conditions, such as household composition. With regard to means, a person may have a combined household income of up to €100.00 per week over and above the maximum rate of state pension (contributory).

A fuel allowance application form was received from the person concerned on 12 March 2018. Additional information regarding their household means was requested in writing on 9 April 2018. As no reply was received, a further request for the required information was issued on 6 July 2018. When the requested information is received from the person concerned, a decision on their eligibility for fuel allowance will be made and the person notified in writing.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.