285. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection whether the family of a deceased person (details supplied) might receive consideration for ENP to meet financial costs arising from the death of both parents given that both parents died intestate, and the family home remains occupied by family members; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46038/24]

Under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) scheme, my Department may make an Additional Needs Payment (ANP) to help assist with funeral and burial expenses where there is an inability to pay these costs, in part or in full, by the family of the deceased person without causing hardship.

I would refer the Deputy to previous Dáil Question 910, which outlined that the claim of the person concerned was disallowed on the basis that the deceased person owned assets from which all outstanding debts, including the funeral costs can be paid once a Grant of Probate, which should be initiated by the next of kin, has been obtained.  A letter advising the person concerned of this outcome and affording them the opportunity to seek a review issued to them on 18/07/2024.

A Reviewing Officer reviewed the claim made by the person concerned and considering the circumstances of the case, upheld the original decision made by the Designated Person. This position has not changed.

If the person concerned feels that they have been treated unfairly, they still have the right of recourse to contact The Office of the Ombudsman, 6 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, D02 W773, Telephone number: 01-639 5600 / 1890 22 30 30, Email: ombudsman@ombudsman.gov.ie.

I trust this clarifies the matter.