NDA submission to the Department of Social Protection on potential new Working Age Payment and targeted child payments

The NDA highlighted that disabled people in Ireland are at a higher risk of poverty, or material deprivation. Children living in a household with a disabled adult are more likely to experience persistent poverty. The NDA noted that the consultation was an opportunity for more equitable reform of existing payments, to ensure that work pays for low-income families. 

The submission highlighted the importance of defined eligibility criteria to clarify interaction with other social welfare payments, and the retention of secondary benefits. The NDA also suggested some ways that new payments could keep up with inflation and take into account the impact of rising housing costs for some low-income families. 

It was noted that if new payments are introduced, efforts will need to be made around awareness raising and accessible information, to ensure a smooth transition.