O'Cuiv denies delay in processing allowance claims

The Minister for Social Protection Eamon O'Cuiv is denying reports that up to 60% of claims for the back-to-school allowance have yet to be processed.

There has been a huge increase in demand for the payment which is a subsidy for the cost of school clothing and footwear.

Mr O'Cuiv has said many areas of the country are paying out within three to five working days, and in many cases outstanding claims are caused because parents haven't submitted all of the relevant information.