asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware that a person (name supplied) in Saint Loman's Hospital, Mullingar, who was entitled to disability benefit died in 1962; and that his brother subsequently claimed arrears of benefit on his behalf but that this payment has been refused; and if he will make arrangements to have the arrears paid to this man.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disability Benefit Claim.
95.
The person concerned was in hospital from June, 1961 until his death in December, 1962, but no claim for disability benefit was made by him or on his behalf during that time. The claim mentioned in the question was not made until almost three years afterwards, in October, 1965. Statutory regulations, however, preclude the payment of disability benefit in respect of any period of illness or incapacity occurring more than six months before the making of the claim in respect thereof.
Surely provision could be made to have at least portion of it paid for funeral expenses?
I think it would need new legislation to do that. I have examined this case very carefully and I have not very much sympathy with the people making the claim.
In view of the fact that the person was not aware how this money could be collected, would the Minister not agree that funeral expenses can be claimed? Would he not have another look at the matter to see whether they can be claimed?
I will have another look at it.