183 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason the value of a person’s private family home was taken into account for income purposes for determining the free fuel allowance (details supplied). [3186/11]

The means test applied in determining this person's fuel allowance entitlement was based on information provided in his completed claim form, which was submitted in October 2009. In his claim form, the individual concerned indicated that he owned property (other than his own home), which was valued at €100,000. The applicable capital limit for eligibility for fuel allowance is €58,000. If his financial circumstances have changed in the interim, he is advised to submit a new claim for fuel allowance. On receipt of the completed claim form, his entitlement to the allowance will be examined and he will be notified of the outcome without delay.

184 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding supplementary welfare allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [3190/11]

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is administered on behalf of the Department by the Community Welfare Services division of the Health Service Executive (HSE). The HSE has advised that the person concerned was refused a rent supplement on the grounds that she was not considered to be habitually resident in the State. It is open to the person concerned to appeal this decision to the HSE's designated Appeals Officer.