Almost €1 billion in Irish welfare overpayments remain unrecovered, figures show
New data reveal that between 2016 and 2025 the Department of Social Protection made €1.22 bn in overpayments, of which €354.2 m has never been recovered, adding to a €597.4 m debt carried over from 2015.
Figures obtained by Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín after a parliamentary question to Social Protection Minister Dara Calleary indicate that the Department of Social Protection overpaid €1.22 bn in welfare benefits between 2016 and 2025. Annual overpayments varied, with the lowest at €99.2 m in 2020 and the highest at €168 m in 2025. During the same period the department recovered €867.2 m, leaving €354.2 m unrecovered; combined with a €597.4 m outstanding debt at the end of 2015, the total unrecovered amount approaches €952 m. Calleary emphasized ongoing safeguards, cooperation with the Revenue Commissioners, and recovery methods such as scheme deductions, direct debits and earnings attachments.
Tóibín argued the figures demonstrate a major waste of public funds and urged clarification on how much stems from fraud versus administrative error. He questioned whether any individual or business could lose such sums without repercussions.
Why it matters
Unrecovered welfare overpayments represent a substantial loss of public money and raise concerns about oversight and accountability.
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