Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Officials of my Department have not been in discussions with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage regarding a policy to have local authorities authorise works/purchases under the Additional Needs Payment for individuals who have recently been allocated local authority properties. However, I have been advised by my officials that there have been some discussions between the local Community Welfare Staff and a customer in Galway, seeking the assistance of the Local Authority in respect of an application for an Additional Needs Payment.

Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, my Department can make Additional Needs Payments to help meet essential expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income.

Additional Needs Payments are available to assist with costs that cannot be met from a person’s own resources, and which are deemed to be necessary.

Payments are made at the discretion of the officers administering the scheme, taking into account the requirements of the legislation, and all the relevant circumstances of the case in order to ensure that the payments target those most in need of assistance.

Where a Local Authority tenant cannot furnish the property from within his/her own resources, s/he can apply for an Additional Needs Payment to assist them in furnishing the property. Assistance can be provided in respect of necessary housing related items including bedding, flooring, furniture and household appliances. The level of furnishings and appliances required will depend on an assessment of size and nature of the proposed property, the expected level of occupancy and items already available to the customer. Every case is based on the individual circumstances and needs of the household and liaison between Community Welfare Staff and the relevant Local Authority may be necessary when determining the needs of a household.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.