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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 17 Nov 1966

Vol. 225 No. 8

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.

132.

asked the Minister for Social Welfare why the rate of appeals by social welfare officers to appeals officers has increased from 2,200 for 12 months in 1963 to 3,700 for ten months in 1966.

As stated in the reply I gave the Deputy on 9th November these figures are approximate. They are based on the total number of appeals received and would appear to reflect the greater number of new claims and requests for higher rates of pension consequent on changes in old age pension legislation.

It is caused by the reduction in the standard of living.

No such thing. It is only natural when changes are made and where means test arrangements operate that many people will question as to whether they should qualify.

It is only natural that people should appeal when they find it hard to live.

There would not be any extra numbers if the increases were not given.

133.

asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will state, with reference to a reply of 9th November last, the percentage of appeals by social welfare officers in each of the last ten years which were upheld by appeals officers.

The records kept in my Department would not enable the information requested by the Deputy to be compiled.

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