Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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1209. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the progress to date in the determination of an application for illness benefit and disability allowance in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35564/18]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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Illness Benefit (IB) is a short term scheme intended for persons who are unable to work due to illness or injury.  It is paid while the incapacitated person remains unable to work and continues to meet the conditions of the scheme.  There is, however, a maximum payment period of two years after which payment will cease.

The Person concerned made an IB claim in 17/09/16. This claim was awarded and in payment until the 28/08/18, at which point IB ceased payment as invalidity pension (INVP) was awarded.

The gentleman referred to submitted an application for INVP on 12 June 2018. He was awarded INVP with effect from 14 June 2018.  The first payment issued to his nominated bank account on the 30 August 2018. 

Any arrears due (less any overlapping social welfare payment) will issue in due course.  The gentleman in question was notified of this decision on the 15 August 2018.

I confirm that my department received an application for disability allowance (DA) from this gentleman on 7 August 2018.

DA cannot be paid concurrently with INVP which is payable at a higher rate than DA.  The application of the person concerned has been withdrawn as he is in receipt of a higher rate of payment.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.