870. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Social Protection the steps being taken to ensure that individuals facing life-limiting illnesses are not burdened by unnecessary bureaucratic procedures when applying for financial assistance as in the case of a person (details supplied). [1004/25]

According to the records of the Department, the person concerned was initially in receipt of a Partial Capacity Benefit (PCB) payment. Upon cessation of this payment, the person concerned submitted three claim applications for financial assistance to the Department; Disability Allowance (DA), Invalidity Pension and basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA). Disability Allowance and basic SWA are both mean-assessed payments. As part of the application process for these payments, a person is asked to provide personal, financial, household, and other information in support of each claim to determine eligibility and to establish a need as considered necessary.

I can confirm that on review of all three applications, the person concerned has been awarded an Invalidity Pension at the new weekly rate from 02/01/2025. Their first payment including any arrears due issued to their nominated bank account on 16/01/2024. Arrears will be paid at the previous weekly rate from 12/12/2024, which is the day following their last working day. A letter advising the person concerned of this outcome has issued to them on 07/01/2024.

The basic SWA provides immediate assistance for those in need who are awaiting the outcome of a claim or an appeal for a primary social welfare payment or do not qualify for payment under other State schemes. The person concerned application for a basic SWA has been closed as their primary payment, Invalidity Pension, has now been awarded.

If the person concerned is experiencing financial difficulties with cost of living/household/essential expenses that an eligible person cannot pay from their weekly income, it is open to make an Additional Needs Payment application by completing a SWA1 form and providing any necessary supporting documentation. Alternatively, if the person concerned has a verified MyGovID account they can apply for an ANP at www.MyWelfare.ie.

I understand that a Designated Person contacted the person concerned on 08/01/2025 to discuss the outcome of their applications further, as well as to advise them of any other financial assistance that may be available to both the person concerned and their family. The Designated Person has provided her contact details to the person concerned and remains available to be contacted directly to discuss any information pertaining to available assistance.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.