asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an arrears card will be sent out to a person (details supplied) in County Meath as requested on two occasions; and if he will arrange that it be issued now in order that benefit can be paid, which is awaited since March.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Arrears Card.
45.
The issue of an arrears card to the person referred to by the Deputy does not arise. When a claim for occupational injury benefit in respect of an alleged accident on 31st March, 1976, was received on 9th April, 1976, it was necessary to obtain confirmation of the accident from the employer. Pending receipt of this information the claimant's entitlement to disability benefit in respect of his incapacity was examined but as he had insufficient contributions in the 1974 contribution year this benefit could not be paid. When notified of this the claimant replied on 30th April, 1976, stating that his insurance card for 1974 had been lost by his employers at the time. Inquiries instituted by my Department to confirm employment and the payment of contributions in the year in question are proceeding.
In connection with the claim for occupational injury benefit, the employer at the date of the alleged accident has now stated that he has no knowledge of an accident on 31st March, 1976, and further inquiries will have to be made in this connection.
When all inquiries have been completed a decision on the person's claim will be made.