People who were negatively affected by delays in the processing of Illness Benefit last year are to receive compensation, it has been confirmed.
A number of citizens across Ireland were hit by delayed illness benefit payments at the end of 2018 due to technological system issues.
Donegal Deputy Thomas Pringle received confirmation yesterday that those who incurred financial penalties as a result of delays are set to be compensated through Exceptional Needs Payments.
Deputy Pringle welcomed the outcome from Minister for Social Protection Regina Doherty and said: “Many recipients had fallen into debt either from new loans or failing to pay existing loans with some banks incurring penalties for delayed payments.
“It’s important that those who were already in need of income support via the Illness Benefit scheme were not left behind to deal with the financial mess as a result of a mistake the Department made. I’m glad that the State is accepting its responsibility and being held to account.”
Deputy Pringle is urging anyone who incurred a financial cost or penalty to present themselves to the Community Welfare Offices with receipts to claim compensation.
“Exceptional Needs Payments are available to any individual who incurred a financial cost as a direct result of Illness Benefit delays,” he said.
Deputy Pringle added: “While I feel there should be a payment above and beyond financial costs I welcome this development and will keep a close eye on its progress. I hope that compensation claims will be dealt with in a timely manner for the benefit of the recipient.”
