AQW 13795/17-22

Mr Gerry Carroll
People Before Profit Alliance
West Belfast

Tabled Date: 01/02/2021
Answered On Date: 09/02/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities, further to her update to the Assembly on 19 January 2021, when she expects to bring a paper to the Executive to approve changes to the Special Rules for Terminal Illness in social security law.

Answer:

I have highlighted previously that additional recurring costs resulting from any option to change the special rules for terminal illness, that breaks social security parity with Britain, will need to be borne by the Executive’s block grant.

I am committed to supporting those in most need, including those requiring access to Special Rules for Terminal Illness. I also welcome the Assembly supporting this position.

When final decisions have been taken in relation to the 2021/22 budget, the Department will consider the available options.