Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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412. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if there is an appeal mechanism for a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim who, by virtue of reaching the age of 66 years and having been awarded the old-age pension, missed out on the €500 bonus paid to persons in receipt of the invalidity pension by just one month; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61949/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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In response to the ongoing cost of living pressures, I announced on Budget Day that my Department will spend approximately €1.2 billion on social welfare measures to help individuals and families through this difficult period.

This included a range of double payments and lump sum payments that were targeted at those who are most vulnerable including older people, families, carers and those living with disabilities.

The €500 lump sum payment to those on Disability Allowance, Blind Pension and Invalidity Pension was paid to those receiving these payments in the relevant week in November.

However, recipients of State Pensions, who receive a higher weekly rate of payment, are eligible for the Christmas Bonus.

In November, my Department paid a range of cost of living supports, which included:

- A €400 lump sum payment to all households in receipt of Fuel Allowance, many of whom are pensioners.

- An additional €200 Lump Sum Payment to all persons in receipt of the Living Alone Allowance, the majority of whom are pensioners.

Last week, the Christmas Bonus Double Payment was paid to all Pensioners, Carers, Persons with Disabilities, One Parent Family Payment and other Social Protection recipients.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy