The number of self-employed people availing of dental treatment, optical exams and medical appliances is on the increase across Wexford and Minister Michael D’Arcy is supporting self-employed people to use the scheme which is proving to be a major success.
“In 2017, Fine Gael extended the Treatment Benefit Scheme to self-employed persons for the first time. This was a major milestone in terms of the equal treatment of small and medium business owners who are the backbone of the economy in towns and villages across Wexford.

Minister Michael D’Arcy

“In 2018 alone, 6,050 self-employed people in Wexford took up the treatment benefit scheme, availing of dental treatment, eye exams and medical appliances. The Dental treatment was the most popular amongst the self-employed with 3,847 people taking it up.
“The introduction of this new benefit for the self-employed creates greater fairness in the system of welfare provision and reflects the Government’s commitment to creating the best possible environment for business to thrive.
“Meanwhile 2019 brings new supports for self-employed people in Wexford who will become eligible for Jobseeker’s Benefit for the first time.
The ‘New Deal for the Self-Employed’ is outlined in the plan for ‘Taking Ireland Forward Together’ that envisages a totally reformed social insurance system.
There is also a plan to expand other benefits, such as carer’s benefit, in the years ahead. The equalisation of the Earned Income Tax Credit with the PAYE Tax Credit is also part of this agenda to ensure the self-employed are properly recognised. For the 150,000 self-employed workers who make up an important part of our economy, the Earned Income Credit will be increased by a further €200 to €1,350.