Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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427. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will outline the position regarding a rent supplement claim by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10949/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Rent Supplement provides short-term income support to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source. The scheme ensures that for those who were renting, but whose circumstances have changed due to temporary loss of employment, can continue to meet their rental commitments.

The responsibility for the provision of rent support to those with a long-term housing need has transferred from the Department of Social Protection to the local authorities. Persons with a long-term housing need should contact their local authority where information is available regarding suitable housing supports including the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).

The person concerned has been in receipt of a Rent Supplement (RS) since 23/11/2015 and is currently receiving an RS payment of €38.80 per week. Following notification of a rent increase, a review of the person’s claim was initiated and information was sought on 18/10/2022. As this information remains outstanding a reminder issued recently to the person for the following:

- A letter from the Local Authority stating the person has been assessed as having a housing need.

- Evidence that the person has applied for HAP.

- Utility bills for the last 6 months.

- Evidence of rent paid for 6 of the last 12 months.

- Bank/Revolut/An Post statements for all accounts held by the person and her spouse for the last 6 months.

- Original notification of the rent increase from the landlord.

- Current tenancy/lease agreement.

- Up to date proof of ownership from the landlord.

When this information is received, the person’s claim will be assessed and she will be advised of the outcome in writing.

I trust this clarifies the matter.