Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

516. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the number of people incorrectly awarded the spring bonus; and the estimated cost of recouping that. [25022/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Spring Cost of Living Bonus is one of a range of measures put in place by Government to support people and assist with cost of living increases. It is a €200 lump sum payment which was paid the week commencing 24th April to over 1.253 million people in receipt of long-term social welfare payments at a cost of approximately €250 million.

One lump sum payment of €200 was paid to each eligible person who has an entitlement to a primary payment in their own right. If a person receives more than one qualifying social welfare payment, they received only one €200 lump sum payment. Only people who were deemed eligible were paid the bonus. However if a person received the bonus and considers they are not eligible, they should contact the Department to have the matter examined.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.