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

Under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) scheme, my Department may make an Additional Needs Payment (ANP) to help meet expenses that an eligible person cannot pay from their weekly income. This is an overarching term used to refer to Exceptional Needs Payments (ENPs) and Urgent Needs Payments (UNPs), and certain supplements to assist with ongoing or recurring costs that cannot be met from a person’s own resources, and which are deemed to be necessary.

The ANP scheme is demand led and payments are made at the discretion of the Designated Persons (DPs) in the Community Welfare Service (CWS) 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. The legislation providing for ANPs does not confer a statutory right or entitlement to a payment. The principal consideration in making a payment under the scheme is to address a particular need.

Where a tenant cannot furnish their new property from within their own household resources, s/he can apply for an ANP 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.

A person can apply for an ANP by completing a SWA1 form which is available in all Intreo Centres and Branch Offices. It can also be requested by calling 0818 60 70 80 and by using this link www.eforms.gov.ie/en/forms/5. A completed application form together with any supporting documentation can be returned directly to my Department where the claim will be processed quickly. Where a person has a verified MyGovID they can also apply online for an Additional Needs Payment (ANP) at www.MyWelfare.ie .

I trust this clarifies the matter.

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

The Treatment Benefit Scheme provides dental, optical and aural services to insured workers, the self-employed, retired people and their dependent spouse/partner who have the required number of social insurance (PRSI) contributions.

The Department have been in contact with Optometry Ireland as the representative body for Optical practitioners in Ireland and have discussed a provisional date for meeting to review the scheme. This will be finalised in the coming days with a view to an in person meeting taking place before the end of March. Engagement with other stakeholders will also form part of the process. The examination fee may be considered as part of the review.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

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

The Treatment Benefit Scheme provides dental, optical and aural services to insured workers, the self-employed, retired people and their dependent spouse/partner who have the required number of social insurance (PRSI) contributions.

The Department have been in contact with a representative body for Optical practitioners in Ireland and have discussed a provisional date for meeting to review the scheme. This will be finalised in the coming days with a view to an in person meeting taking place before the end of March. Engagement with other stakeholders will also form part of the process. The examination fee may be considered as part of the review.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.