2039. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 312 and 313 of 9 July 2026, if he will consider the further points raised in correspondence (details supplied) regarding the backdating of domiciliary care allowance, particularly in circumstances where a child required a significantly enhanced level of care from birth but where diagnosis of a congenital condition was substantially delayed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61796/26]

Domiciliary Care Allowance is a non means tested payment to a parent or guardian in respect of a child under 16 who has a severe disability and requires continuous care and attention, substantially more than what is typically required by a child of the same age. Eligibility is not based on the disability or diagnosis, but on the impact of the disability in terms of the level of care and attention required by the child.

Legislation provides that Domiciliary Care Allowance may be backdated for up to six months where there was ‘good cause’ for a late claim. ‘Good cause’ is assessed by Deciding Officers based on the circumstances presented and any supporting evidence.

In the case referred to by the Deputy, the person was awarded Domiciliary Care Allowance in respect of their child with effect from August 2025, which included the maximum six?month backdating permitted.

This decision was appealed to the Social Welfare Appeals Office and was subsequently the subject of a further review of the Appeal Officer's decision. Both reviews upheld the original decision.