Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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1397. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the reason for the delay in processing a fuel allowance application by a person (details supplied); the outstanding documentation in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18530/19]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Fuel allowance is a means-tested payment to help householders on long-term social welfare payments with their winter heating costs.  It is not intended to meet these costs in full.  Only one allowance is paid per household.

The applicant must satisfy a number of eligibility conditions which include being in receipt of a qualifying payment, satisfying a means test and living alone or only with other qualifying person(s).

An application for fuel allowance was received from the person concerned.  A request for additional  information regarding their means was issued on 9 April 2019.  The  person's eligibility for fuel allowance was assessed based on the information provided. Fuel allowance has been awarded from 8 February 2019.  It was payable in respect of their late spouse to 7 February 2019.  Written notification of this decision has issued to the person concerned.

Receipt of both fuel allowance and living alone allowance automatically entitles the person concerned to the telephone support allowance of €2.50 per week from 8 February 2019.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.