asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware of the inadequacy of the appeals machinery in relation to supplementary welfare allowances; if he will introduce procedures similar to those available in respect of social welfare benefit and assistance in respect of these allowances; and if he will provide that aggrieved persons can nominate another person or public representative to attend with them at appeal hearings.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supplementary Welfare Allowances.
55.
I consider the existing appeals machinery in relation to supplementary welfare allowances has been working reasonably well.
However, I have the question of introducing more formalised procedures similar to those available in respect of social welfare assistance, under examination. The admission of representatives of the appellants to attend at hearings in the manner suggested by the Deputy is one of the matters within the scope of this examination.