Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education was one of my key priorities as part of Budget 2024.

With many children now starting primary school at age 5, together with the increase in pupils doing transition year, there has been an increase in the number of 18-year-olds still in secondary education. I believe the extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education is a long-term change for the better and will support families across Ireland into the future.

This is a significant change to the Child Benefit scheme, which will require technical and operational changes to the social welfare system before implementation. Therefore the change will take effect from September 2024. Where a child in full time education turns 18 in the meantime they will be covered by the extension from September 2024 until they turn 19. It is usual for changes to the social welfare system to take effect from a future date and the question of a compensation payment to cover the intervening period does not arise.

I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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471. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if a decision has been made on an application for child benefit by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54686/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Child Benefit is a monthly payment to the parents or guardians of children under 16 years of age. Child Benefit can also be claimed for children aged 16 and 17, if they are in full-time education or full-time training or have a disability and cannot support themselves.

The claim from the person concerned was received on 30 November 2023. The form has been returned for completion, as it had not been fully completed by the customer. On return of the form, it will be reviewed and a decision made on entitlement.

I trust this clarifies the position.