Figures show that more than 40% of DLA claimants in Northern Ireland have had their benefit cut or stopped

Figures released by Department for Communities show that more than 40% of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) claimants in Northern Ireland had their benefit cut or stopped when they were reassessed for the new Personal Independence Payment (PIP) benefit. 

Yesterday on the show we heard from the father of 28 year old mum Roisin McWilliams who had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer but has been turned down for Personal Independence Payment after undergoing an assessment.

Today, Vinny talks to Theresa Leavy, who's daughter Melissa was only 12 when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) . She was in receipt of DLA indefinitely, receiving the high rate, which included a mobility car. In March, Melissa was reassessed under the new PIP arrangement - she was informed eight weeks later that her benefit was being cut - in effect she would lose her mobility allowance.