Grants of up to €1,000 towards the cost of medically required contact lenses are to be made available every two years for employees and the self-employed.
It’s under new measures announced today by Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys.
Under the scheme, grants of up to €1,000 towards the cost of a pair of medical contact lenses will be provided every two years, or €500 for each contact lens.
The changes take effect immediately for people who qualify under the Department’s Treatment Benefit Scheme.
The Minister said contact lenses can be a costly expense and the measure was designed to assist people who required specialised lenses for medical reasons.
She added the move was one of three "positive changes" that she has introduced under the Treatment Benefit scheme through Budget 2022.
"This follows on from my introduction of a new €500 grant towards the cost of a hairpiece, wig or hair replacement and the easing of PRSI conditions for 25-29 year olds," Minister Humphreys continued.
"The Regulations that I have signed today ensure that these people, whether employees or the self-employed, are given the same treatment as those who might use the Treatment Benefit Scheme to receive support towards the cost of a pair of glasses.
"I will continue to examine what further changes we can make to this important scheme so that more of our citizens can benefit."
