asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware that a person (details supplied) was declared fit for work by the medical referee after five weeks receipt of disability benefit of £42 per week, despite a contrary view by his own doctor, that he continued on sick leave for a further six weeks in receipt of home assistance of £28 per week; that due to financial pressure he returned to work where he collapsed; that the person has again submitted medical certificates; and if, in the circumstances, he will arrange for the immediate payment of disability benefit and such arrears as is due to the person for the weeks he received only home assistance.
Written Answers. - Payment of Disability Benefit.
262.
The person concerned was paid disability benefit from 9 January 1979 to 29 January 1979. Payment was disallowed after that date following examination by a medical referee who expressed the opinion that he was capable of work. He appealed against the decision disallowing payment and, in connection with his appeal, arrangements were made for a further medical referee examination on 21 March 1979. However, the examination was not held as, before that date, he submitted a certificate from his doctor to the effect that he would be fit to resume work on 10 March 1979.
Medical evidence indicating incapacity for work from 30 April 1979 has recently been received. His claim has been admitted from that date and arrangements have been made for payment of disability benefit. A cheque is available for collection at the distribution centre at Townsend Street, Dublin 2.
The person's entitlement to payment in respect of the period from 30 January 1979 to 9 March 1979 has been referred to an appeals officer for determination.