asked the Minister for Social Welfare (a) the number of non-contributory old age pension appeals made to his Department for the year ended 31st December 1964 from County Sligo, and the average delay in dealing with such appeals; and (b) what he considers a reasonable average time during which such appeals should be decided.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Sligo Old Age Pension Appeals.
31.
The total number of non-contributory old age pension appeals received in my Department for the year ended 31st December, 1964 was 3,072. Statistics are not maintained in respect of countries. The time taken in dealing with appeals varies according to the particular circumstances of each case and the extent of inquiries necessary to ensure that all relevant information is before the appeals officer. It would not be possible to suggest an average time for deciding appeals.