Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The question refers to the position of a person whose partner has recently passed away and who is now parenting alone but who does not qualify for a Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's (Contributory) Pension. Firstly, I would like to offer my condolences to the person concerned.

The Jobseeker's Transitional Payment is one of the supports that my Department provides for people who are parenting alone. It is a means tested payment for people who are parenting alone and whose youngest child is aged between 7 and 13 years of age. It may be that the person to whom the Deputy refers would be eligible for that payment.

However, to ascertain what supports the person may be eligible for from my Department, I would suggest that the person call to their local Intreo office and talk to the staff there as they will be able to advise the person appropriately based on the circumstances of their particular situation.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.