Recent figures reveal that over 3,000 individuals residing outside of Ireland are claiming child benefit for more than 6,000 children, totaling at least €866,040 in payments each month. This amounts to €10.4 million annually, with the potential for higher figures due to varying rates for twins and triplets.

Social Protection Minister Dara Calleary disclosed this information in response to a query from Fine Gael TD John Paul O'Shea. The Cork North-West TD sought a breakdown of child benefit payments made to individuals living abroad.

Child Benefit is a monthly automatic payment of €140 provided to parents or guardians of children under 16 years old. Since 2024, parents can also apply for this benefit if their children are aged 16-18 and in full-time education or have a disability that prevents self-support.

Minister Calleary explained that under EU regulations, Child Benefit is classified as a "Family Payment." UK, EU, or EEA citizens working in Ireland are eligible to apply for Irish Child Benefit, even if their children reside in another EU or EEA country.

As of April 30, Child Benefit was being paid to 3,381 customers for 6,186 non-resident children across 22 different countries. The highest number of claims came from the UK, with 1,310 recipients for 2,695 children, followed by Poland and Romania.

Deputy O'Shea expressed that he sought this data to enhance his work as Chairman of the Oireachtas Social Protection Committee, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of the social welfare system and plans to further discuss these details with the Department.

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