asked the Minister for Social Welfare how a person (details supplied) in County Wexford over 60 years old can claim a contributory old age pension from a non-EC country such as New Zealand if he has the necessary contributions in that country, but is now residing in Ireland.
Written Answers. - New Zealand Pension.
450.
The Department have no function in regard to pension entitlements from non-EC states and, consequently, an application for a pension from such a country would have to be submitted to the responsible authority in that country. The person concerned should write to the New Zealand High Commission, New Zealand House, Haymarket, London, SW1 Y4TR, if he wishes to obtain the address of the responsible authority in New Zealand.
451.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if non-contributory old age pension payments will be increased for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford in view of the fact he cannot manage on the low level of payments awarded.
It has been decided that the person concerned is entitled to an old age pension at the weekly rate of £11.05 from 4 January 1985 which includes an adult dependant allowance of £3.75. This is the rate to which he is entitled having regard to the assessment of his means, consisting of half the weekly value of his own and his wife's combined British retirement pensions and earnings from self-employment. A form which will enable the person concerned to appeal against the decision has recently been issued to the pensioner and on its receipt in the Department the matter will be referred to an appeals officer for determination. The pensioner will be notified of the outcome in due course.
452.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for the delay in dealing with the appeal against the decision of his Department in the smallholders' assistance case of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and when an oral hearing will be given in this case.
The person concerned appealed against the means assessment in his case and the matter was referred to an appeals officer. The appeals officer required further information about unverified expenses and when this information was furnished by the applicant on 2 January 1985 the case was again referred to the appeals officer and is still under consideration. It will be dealt with at the earliest opportunity.
Weekly payments of unemployment assistance at £14.90 being the appropriate rate £62.95 less means £48.05 continue to be made to him pending the outcome of his appeal. His rate of unemployment assistance will be reviewed in the light of the decision of the appeals officer.
453.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan appealed the withdrawal of unemployment assistance; and the reason for the delay in deciding the appeal.
The inquiries to establish whether the person concerned fulfilled the condition of being available for work from 25 January 1984 and referred to in the reply to your previous Parliamentary Question dated 13 November 1984 have now been completed.
His claim from 25 January 1984 to 31 May 1984 has been disallowed on the grounds that in the opinion of a deciding officer he was not genuinely seeking work during this period and accordingly he did not satisfy the condition of being available for work. However, the deciding officer decided that he was available for work with effect from 1 June 1984 to 20 October 1984 after which he ceased to sign as unemployed. He is being written to and asked to call in to his local office for the purpose of paying all unemployment benefit due.
454.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare further to the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 564 of 22 May 1984, if an investigation has now been completed for the years 1961-65 for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and the outcome of that investigation.
Investigations into the contributions record of the person concerned have been completed and it has not been possible to establish her old social insurance number or her contribution record for the years from 1961 to October 1964. However, it has been accepted that she was insurably employed for 51 weeks in the period from 6 October 1964 to 27 August 1965 and 51 replacement contribution have accordingly been awarded.
She is requalified for disability benefit therefore, as she has now in excess of 156 paid contributions, the minimum required for continuous payment of benefit. Cheques totalling £1,174.32, disability benefit payable from 10 April 1984, to 21 December 1984, the date of the latest medical certificate received, were issued on 11 January 1985.
455.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when back payments of an unmarried mother's allowance will be made to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1.
A payable order for the arrears of unmarried mother's allowance for the period from 24 May 1984 to 3 October 1984, less adjustments in respect of supplementary welfare allowance paid to her by the Eastern Health Board and unemployment benefit paid to her by the Department during that time, was sent to the person concerned on 21 December 1984.
456.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment assistance payments will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if unemployment assistance at the maximum rate will be paid in view of the fact that he cannot obtain work and has no other income.
The person concerned re-applied for unemployment assistance on 11 December 1984 and as he was the holder of a qualification certificate with means assessed at £25.75 weekly derived from self-employment weekly payments of unemployment assistance of £4.20 being the maximum rate appropriate to him £29.95 less £25.75 means are being made to him as they become due.
His case was, however, referred to a social welfare officer for a reinvestigation of his means and when inquiries are completed, the assessment of his means will be reviewed and the rate of unemployment assistance payable to him will be determined accordingly.
457.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if a person (details supplied) in County Wexford will be awarded unemployment benefit payments in view of the fact that she is available for work.
Entitlement to unemployment benefit is subject to the condition that a claimant must be available for work and to be available for work she must be capable of, available for and genuinely seeking employment.
The person concerned claimed unemployment benefit from 30 October 1984 but her claim was disallowed on the grounds that she was not available for employment. She appealed against the disallowance and her case has been referred to an appeals officer for consideration. Her appeal will be heard at the earliest opportunity. Her entitlement to unemployment benefit will be determined in the light of the appeals officer's decision.
458.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if a person (details supplied) in County Wexford will be awarded unemployment benefit payments in view of the fact that she is fully available for work and has the necessary contributions.
Availability for work is a condition of entitlement to unemployment benefit and to fulfil this condition an applicant must be capable of, available for and genuinely seeking work. The person concerned claimed unemployment benefit on 1 October 1984 and following the completion of inquiries her claim was disallowed on the grounds that she was not available for employment.
She recently appealed against the disallowance and arrangements are being made to have her case determined by an appeals officer. Her entitlement to unemployment benefit will be reviewed in the light of the decision of the appeals officer.
459.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment assistance will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Clare.
The unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned was disallowed from 18 July 1984 on the grounds that his means derived from self employment and benefit from his wife's earnings exceeded the statutory limit.
He appealed against the disallowance of his unemployment assistance claim and following the completion of additional inquiries the appeals officer also assessed him with means in excess of the statutory limit from 18 July 1984 to 3 November 1984 and at £16.15 weekly with effect from 5 November 1984. His unemployment assistance claim was accordingly disallowed from 18 July 1984 to 3 November 1984 but allowed from 5 November 1984. All arrears of unemployment assistance due were paid last week and further payments of £56.10 being the appropriate rate £72.25 less £16.15 will be made as they become due.
460.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny who applied for a contributory old age pension some time ago has not received a reply.
The person concerned reached age 66 years on 21 September 1984 and claimed a contributory old age pension on 5 October 1984. He was awarded the pension at the maximum rate with effect from 21 September 1984. A contributory old age pension book containing orders payable from 11 January 1985 was issued to the designated post office for collection by him and he was notified accordingly on 7 January 1985.
He had been in receipt of invalidity pension and arrears of old age contributory pension from 21 September 1984 to 10 January 1985, less the amount of invalidity pension paid to him in this period, were issued to him by payable order on 14 January 1985.
461.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny.
The person concerned claimed unemployment benefit from 14 December 1984 at the employment exchange, Kilkenny. Following the completion of inquiries to establish his eligibility for payment, his claim was allowed at the weekly flat rate unemployment benefit £37.25 and pay-related benefit £5.35 weekly and all arrears due were paid on 11 January 1985. Further combined payments at £42.60 weekly are being made as they become due.
462.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a decision will be made on the appeal of a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan for an increased payment of small farmer's unemployment assistance.
The appeals officer who is dealing with the appeal application of the person concerned required additional information and the case was referred to a social welfare officer for further inquiries. These inquiries were recently completed and the case was returned to the appeals officer who will deal with it at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime weekly payments of unemployment assistance at £41.05 continue to be made to him as they become due.
463.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when arrears of disability benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan.
The person concerned was paid injury benefit for the period from 9 September 1983, date of his occupational accident, to 7 February 1984, when he was examined by a medical referee who expressed the opinion that he was capable of work. Following his appeal against the decision to disallow further benefit he was examined by a different medical referee who confirmed the earlier opinion.
His appeal was dealt with by way of an oral hearing and the appeal was allowed in the light of further medical submissions received. In the meantime he claimed disability benefit in respect of a different incapacity and has been paid benefit from 17 July 1984, the fourth day of incapacity, to the date of the latest medical certificate received. All arrears of benefit in respect of the period from 8 February 1984 to 16 July 1984 have been paid to him.
464.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan will receive a living alone allowance.
The person concerned is in receipt of an old age contributory pension since 19 October 1984. Her claim for a living alone allowance has been investigated and she has been awarded this allowance with effect from 19 October 1984. A supplementary book containing orders payable from 7 December was issued to the designated post office on 15 January for collection by her and arrears in respect of the period from 19 October to 6 December have been sent to her by payable order.
465.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a deserted wife's allowance has not been paid to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and when this will be paid.
The claim of the person concerned to a deserted wife's allowance is at present under investigation. She has been visited by a local officer of the Department but it will also be necessary to have her husband interviewed in order to obtain his version of the circumstances which led to the break-up of the marriage. An officer has made two unsuccessful attempts to interview him but expects to make contact with him very shortly. As soon as the reports on the case are received a decision will be given and the claimant will be notified. Meanwhile it is understood that she receives weekly maintenance from her husband out of the unemployment benefit which he is currently claiming from the Department.
466.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason despite repeated requests and representations he will not permit separate payments of the adult dependant allowance of her husband's old age contributory pension to be made to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 who often has to wait for days before her husband pays over the allowance to her; and in view of the fact that the social welfare officer who called to the home has not interviewed the lady concerned, if he will now arrange for separate payments.
The husband of the person concerned is in receipt of an old age contributory pension which includes an allowance for an adult dependant in respect of her.
Under the Social Welfare Acts, an increase in respect of an adult dependant is an integral part of the pension and is payable to the pensioner. It is only paid direct to the adult dependant where the domestic circumstances provide sufficient grounds to warrant such an arrangement, e.g. in a case where the pensioner does not provide for the dependant on a regular basis.
Requests from the person concerned to have the increase in respect of an adult dependant paid direct to her have been investigated on two occasions and she, as well as the husband, was interviewed by the officer. The evidence available to the Department as a result of these investigations is, however, that the husband gives the amount of the increase to her each week. In the circumstances there are not sufficient grounds to warrant payment of the increase directly to herself.
467.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for the delay in the payment of an unemployment benefit claim to a person (details supplied) in County Laois.
The entitlement to unemployment benefit of the person concerned could not be determined until inquiries had been made to establish that his employment during the relevant contribution year from 6 April 1982 to 5 April 1983 was at a contribution class which provided cover against unemployment.
These inquiries were recently completed and his claim has been allowed at the weekly rate of £88.35, being the appropriate rate payable in his case. All arrears due were paid last week and further weekly payments will be made as they become due.
468.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will re-examine as a matter of urgency the application for an increase in a widow's pension for a person (details supplied) in County Laois.
The appeal of the person concerned against the award of a widow's non-contributory pension of £6.50 a week to her is at present with an appeals officer for determination and will be dealt with at the earliest possible opportunity. As soon as a decision is given she will be notified without delay. She was assessed with means of £38.46 per week derived from a farm but claims that this amount is too high.
469.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for the delay in granting a widow's pension to a person (details supplied) in County Cork as she applied approximately four months ago and there is serious hardship involved in this case due to ill-health.
The person concerned has been awarded a widow's non-contributory pension at the weekly rate of £24.50, with effect from 13 July 1984. This is the rate of pension payable to a widow under 66 years of age with no qualified children and whose weekly means exceed £20 but do not exceed £22. Her means derived from a farm building and capital were assessed at £21.37 a week.
A pension book with orders payable from 26 October 1984 was issued to the designated post office on 3 January 1985 for collection by her. Arrears of pension for the period from 13 July 1984 to 25 October 1984 were sent direct to the claimant by payable order on 16 January. Her late husband had been in receipt of old age non-contributory pension which included an increase in respect of his wife and this was paid to her for six weeks after his death on 29 May 1984, in place of widow's pension.
Before a pension could be awarded in this case the widow's means had to be established. There was delay in doing so because she was a patient in different hospitals and it took some time to obtain the necessary documents.
470.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will consider granting a free electricity allowance to a person (details supplied) in County Cork as he is a semi-invalid and his son resides with him for convenience.
To be eligible for a free electricity allowance a person must either be living alone or be living with certain categories of persons only. A free electricity allowance cannot be granted to the person concerned as his son resides with him who is not a person who comes within these categories for satisfying the living alone condition of the scheme.
471.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will make free fuel available to a person (details supplied) in County Waterford as she is 63 years old and is in receipt of a widow's pension.
It is understood from the South Eastern Health Board, which administers the national fuel scheme in County Waterford, that an application by the person concerned for an allowance under the national fuel scheme has been refused on the grounds that she does not fulfil the condition requiring her to be living alone, or only with certain specified categories of persons. It is understood that she lives with her son who is employed.
472.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will make a contributory old age pension available to a person (details supplied) in County Cork who applied in October 1984; and if he will have the payment backdated to July when he reached the qualifying age.
The person concerned reached age 66 years on 24 July 1984 and claimed a contributory old age pension on 20 November 1984. He was awarded the pension at the rate appropriate to his yearly average of 47 contributions with effect from 17 August 1984, i.e. three months prior to his date of claim. This is the maximum period normally allowable under the regulations.
An extension up to a maximum of 6 months can be allowed in exceptional cases if the person can show that there was sufficient good cause for the delay in submitting the claim to the Department, for example if he had been in hospital etc. If there were reasons of this nature which prevented the person from applying, he should make them known to the Department and his request for backpayment can be considered on its merits.
A contributory old age pension book containing orders payable from 19 October 1984 was issued to the designated post office on 21 December 1984 for collection by him and he was notified accordingly. Arrears of pension from 17 August 1984 to 18 October 1984 were sent to him by payable order on 14 January 1985.
473.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be paid his living alone allowance; and the reason the allowance has not been paid to date.
546.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will examine the position of a person (details supplied) in County Cork who was on invalidity pension and transferred to an old age contributory pension; if he will arrange to have all outstanding arrears paid to him; and the reason for the delay in payment.
It is proposed to take Questions Nos. 473 and 546 together. The person concerned claimed an old age contributory pension and a living alone allowance on 26 October 1984. He was awarded the pension at the maximum rate with effect from 5 October 1984, i.e. the Friday following his 66th birthday. An old age contributory pension book containing orders payable from 14 December 1984 was issued to him and the arrears of this pension less the amount of invalidity pension paid to him after he reached age 66, were issued to him by payable order on 17 December 1984.
His claim for a living alone allowance was investigated by the local social welfare officer and this allowance has been awarded to him with effect from 5 October 1984. A supplementary book containing orders payable from 14 December 1984 has been issued to the designated post office and the pensioner has been notified accordingly. The arrears from 5 October to 13 December were issued by payable order on 16 January.
474.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be granted a deserted wife's allowance; and the reason for the delay.
The person concerned has been awarded deserted wife's allowance with effect from 4 October 1984 in respect of herself and one qualified child at the maximum rate of £51.05 per week. An order book payable from 24 January 1985 has been issued to the designated post office for collection by her and she has been notified accordingly.
A payable order in respect of arrears for the period from 4 October 1984 to 23 January 1985, less the amount of supplementary welfare allowance and separate payments of the dependants' portions of her husband's unemployment assistance received by her during that time, will be sent direct to her shortly. The delay in deciding this case was caused by the failure of the claimant to forward the necessary marriage and birth certificates. She was advised of this requirement by a local officer on 12 November 1984 and further reminded by letter dated 7 December, 1984. The certificates were received in the Department on 11 January, 1985.
475.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork who was in receipt of disability benefit for six weeks and was then transferred to occupational injuries benefit was not paid the maximum rate of occupational injuries benefit; and if he will be paid all outstanding arrears.
The person concerned claimed injury benefit from 13 August 1984 in respect of an incapacity resulting from an occupational accident on 5 April. Pending the completion of investigations, his entitlement to disability benefit on an interim basis was examined. Following inquiries to confirm his contributions, disability benefit was paid from 16 August and pay-related benefit from 7 September.
Following confirmation of the accident, injury benefit was awarded from the first day of incapacity. Injury benefit over and above the disability benefit paid on an interim basis was issued and injury benefit was paid to 3 October, the end of the 26 week injury benefit period. He continued to submit medical certificates for which disability benefit was paid to 15 December, after which date he was certified fit to resume work.
There was a delay, however, in payment of pay-related benefit in respect of the period from 4 October due to his record having to be clarified. All benefit due in respect of the claims has now been paid.
476.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when the relatives of a deceased person (details supplied) in County Cork who was in receipt of a contributory widow's pension will be paid a death grant; and the reason for the delay.
There is no trace of a claim having been received in this case. A claim form has been issued to the relatives of the deceased. On its return, the claim will receive prompt attention.
477.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork who is the father of eight children is on a reduced rate of unemployment assistance, even though he completed a supplementary claim approximately two months ago and to date has not been made aware of a decision; and if he will urgently approve his claim.
The reinvestigation of the means of the person concerned was delayed as the claim papers went astray in postal transit. The case however was recently referred to a social welfare officer for an urgent reinvestigation and the assessment of his means will be reviewed in the light of the outcome. In the meantime payments of unemployment assistance at £65.25 weekly being the maximum rate appropriate to him £111.40 less means £46.15 continue to be made as they become due.
478.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the present position regarding the unemployment assistance appeal lodged by a person (details supplied) in County Galway.
The person concerned appealed against the amount of means assessed against him on 8 January 1985 and his case has been referred to an appeals officer for determination. The appeal will be dealt with at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime weekly payments of unemployment assistance at £28.55 being the rate appropriate to him £62.95 less means £34.40 continue to be made as they become due. His rate of payment will be reviewed in the light of the decision of the appeals officer.
479.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will expedite an appeal for unemployment assistance on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Cork.
An appeals officer decided that the means of the person concerned derived from the profit of his holding exceeded the statutory limit applicable to him, £3,842.80 per annum, and disallowed his unemployment assistance claim. He was notified accordingly on 14 January 1985.
480.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will expedite an appeal for unemployment assistance on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Cork.
The person concerned appealed on 5 December 1984 against the decision of the deciding officer which disallowed his unemployment assistance claim on the grounds that he did not fulfil his condition of being available for work. Arrangements are being made to have the appeal heard at the earliest opportunity and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be reviewed in the light of the decision of the appeals officer.
481.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a non-contributory old age pension will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Cork.
The claim of the person concerned for an old age non-contributory pension has been referred to the social welfare officer for investigation. When the inquiries have been completed, the case will be decided on and the claimant will be notified of the outcome without delay.
482.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare in view of the many attacks on our senior citizens if he will now consider abolishing the means-test on old age pensions so as to allow and encourage them to deposit their savings in saving institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Under the legislation governing the old age pension scheme the value of savings must be taken into account in determining the amount of pension to which a person is entitled. In calculating means however there are various exemptions and a person can in fact have a large amount of savings and still qualify for pension. A single person can have savings of up to £2,987.50 and a married couple double that amount and still qualify for full old age pension. Reduced rate pensions may be paid to persons with savings of up to £2,747.50 for a single person and double that amount for a married couple.
The attacks to which the Deputy refers are a cause for serious concern. People must be dissuaded from keeping money at home which could expose them to the risk of such attacks and to this end a leaflet is currently being distributed through post offices to all social welfare pensioners. This leaflet gives details of the sums non-contributory pensioners may hold and still qualify for pension.
Abolition of the means test for old age pension, which would lead to additional expenditure estimated at approximately £150 million in a full year, is not a feasible option in present circumstances. The existence of the means test should not cause pensioners to keep their savings at home and every effort is being made to ensure that they do not do so.
483.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6 who was taken on as a temporary postman for five days from 17 December to 21 December 1984 was refused unemployment benefit for the period from 22 December 1984 to 2 January 1985 on the grounds that he had not applied for his benefit due to the fact that he believed that the unemployment exchanges would be closed until the new year; if he can grant the application in order to avoid the person going through the process of an appeal; if he agrees that a person should not be penalised simply because they obtain work for five days and in view of the fact also that many others with whom the person was working had not even signed off the exchange and received their social welfare payments as the people were recruited by Manpower and therefore his Department were not aware of the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Following the completion of inquiries it has been established that the employment of the person concerned was terminated on 21 December 1984. In the circumstances he has been allowed to sign retrospectively as unemployed from 22 December 1984 and the arrears of unemployment benefit due to him will be paid this week. Investigations are being undertaken into the other matters raised by the Deputy regarding persons recruited as temporary postmen who apparently continued to sign as unemployed while engaged in employment.
484.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a retirement pension has been reduced from £47.55 to £45.55 in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and when six week's arrears of pension due to this person will be paid.
The person concerned was awarded a retirement pension from 23 February 1984 at the maximum rate payable to a single man. The rate payable since 4 July 1984 is £47.55. He had previously been in receipt of invalidity pension to 20 June 1984, at the maximum appropriate rate and arrears of retirement pension in respect of the period from 23 February 1984 to 20 June 1984 less the amount of invalidity pension paid to him in the same period were paid by payable order on 25 June 1984.
The weekly rates of pension were increased from 5 July 1984. A supplementary invalidity pension book implementing this increase at the weekly rate of £2.80 had been issued to the designated post office of payment in April 1984. This book was not returned to the Department but was cashed by the pensioner in addition to his retirement pension. This resulted in an overpayment of £36.40 which is being recovered by deducting the sum of £2 per week from his retirement pension from 6 December 1984. The overpayment will be fully recovered on 3 April 1985 and the rate of retirement pension will then be restored to £47.55.
485.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a free electricity allowance was withdrawn from a person (details supplied) in County Cork who is an elderly widow in bad health.
To be eligible for a free electricity allowance a person must either be living alone or be living with certain categories of persons only. The allowance, which applied in this case was terminated as her daughter, who resides with her and who is engaged in employment, is not a person who comes within the excepted categories for satisfying the living alone condition of the scheme.
486.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason unemployment assistance has not yet been paid to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary who has been signing for the past 16 weeks and who has not yet been paid; when this payment will be made; and the amount which will be paid.
Following the completion of extensive inquiries the unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned was disallowed on the grounds that his means derived from self-employment as a building contractor and from the profit from land, exceeded the statutory limit. He was notified of this decision on 26 November 1984. He recently appealed against the amount of means asessed against him and his case has been referred to an appeals officer for determination. His entitlement to unemployment assistance will be reviewed in the light of the decision of the appeals officer.
487.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason regular payments of disability benefit are not being made to a person (details supplied) in County Galway.
The person concerned claimed disability benefit from 10 April 1984 and all benefit payable has been issued to 10 January 1985 the date of the latest medical certificate received. Special arrangements were made to issue disability benefit payments over the Christmas period which resulted in payment being issued to him in advance of medical evidence. Future payment of disability benefit will continue to be issued to the person concerned on receipt of weekly medical certificates.
488.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will arrange for immediate payment of unemployment benefit to a person (details supplied) in County Galway.
The person concerned does not satisfy the contribution conditions for unemployment benefit in respect of his claim which commenced on 18 October 1984. Due to an error he was paid unemployment benefit from 18 October 1984 to 2 January 1985 after which his claim was terminated. He is however qualified for unemployment assistance and weekly payments at the maximum rate appropriate to him £30.90 are being made as they become due.
489.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Offaly will be paid arrears of an unmarried mother's allowance which amount to £399.
A payable order for the arrears of unmarried mother's allowance due to the person concerned for the period from 20 September 1984 to 5 December 1984 and amounting to £288.05 was sent to her on 17 January 1985. The total arrears for the period came to £561.55. However, while awaiting a decision on her claim she received supplementary welfare allowance from the Midland Health Board and maternity allowance from this Department. A sum of £152.40 was refunded to the health board and £121.10 was withheld for maternity allowance paid to her.
490.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for refusing an unemployment application from a person (details supplied) in County Laois.
Entitlement to unemployment assistance is subject to the condition that an applicant is available for work, and to fulfil this condition an applicant must be capable of, available for and genuinely seeking work. The person concerned claimed unemployment assistance from 9 October, 1984, but following completion of inquiries, her claim was disallowed on the grounds that she was not available for employment. She has been notified of the decision and of her right to appeal.
491.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Clare whose pension book was withdrawn 11 weeks ago will have the book returned as her husband is in hospital.
A replacement pension order book cashable from a current date has recently been sent to the pensioner concerned.
The pensioner had earlier been requested to return her pension book. However this book appears to have gone astray in transit. She has now been requested to give particulars of the payments cashed by her on her earlier book. When this information is to hand, a payable order for any arrears outstanding will be sent to her without delay. The pensioner is currently entitled to pension at £42.30 weekly.
492.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the cause of the long delay in deciding the appeal of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry against the decision to refuse to grant him unemployment assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The person concerned appealed against the disallowance of his unemployment assistance claim in September 1984 and arising from contentions raised in the appeal it was necessary to return the case to the social welfare officer for further inquiries. The social welfare officer has had to make prolonged and extensive inquiries about the income of the holding of the applicant's mother but it is expected that these inquiries will be completed shortly. His case will then be submitted to an appeals officer and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be determined in the light of his decision.
493.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kerry had his unemployment assistance reduced to £22 per week in view of the fact that he has no visible means of support; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
It has not been possible to trace a claim to unemployment assistance which refers to the person named in the details supplied. Further inquiries in the matter will be made if the Deputy will furnish additional information to enable the person concerned to be identified.
494.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an old age pension will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter having regard to the long delay in deciding his application.
It was decided by the local pension committee on 17 February 1983 that the person concerned is not entitled to an old age pension on the grounds of means. The assessment of his means, consisting of the weekly value of capital exceeded the statutory limit for entitlement to pension. There is no record of a repeat claim having been received in this Department to date. In the circumstances representations received from the Deputy on 16 January 1985 have been accepted as a repeat claim to old age pension and has been referred to the social welfare officer for investigation. When the inquiries have been completed the matter will be decided on and the person concerned notified of the outcome in due course.
495.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when old age pensions will be paid to persons (details supplied) in County Cork.
It has been decided that the persons concerned are each entitled to old age pensions at the maximum weekly rate of £41.30 from 26 October 1984, the date of transfer of their holding. The appropriate pension books issued on 19 December 1984.
496.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an invalidity pension will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Cork.
The person concerned has been awarded an invalidity pension from 20 December 1984, the Thursday following completion of claim form. A pension book payable from 14 February 1985 has been issued to the designated post office of payment and arrears in respect of the period from 20 December 1984 to 13 February 1985 less the amount of disability benefit paid during that period will be paid by payable order.
497.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kerry had his unemployment assistance reduced by £6 per week; and if he will make a statement on the matter having regard to his poor family and household circumstances.
Following reinvestigation of his unemployment assistance claim the means of the person concerned were assessed at £7.40 weekly derived from profit from his holding and from fishing. He is therefore entitled to unemployment assistance at the weekly rate of £24.35 being the appropriate rate £31.75 less means £7.40.
He recently appealed against the means assessment and the case has been referred to an appeals officer for determination. The rate of unemployment assistance payable to him will be reviewed in the light of the appeals officer's decision.
498.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an old age pension will be restored to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry who is in poor circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The person concerned has been in receipt of a widow's contributory pension since her husband's death in December 1976. She is currently being paid at the weekly rate of £47.30 which is the maximum for a widow over 80 years of age with no qualified children.
Payment of the pension has not been suspended and there is no record of the receipt of a claim for an old age pension from this woman. The maximum rate of the non-contributory old age pension is less than the pension she is already receiving so it would not be in her interest to claim it. A claim for the contributory old age pension would only arise if she had been insured herself before she reached pension age.
499.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a living alone allowance will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry.
The application of the person concerned for a living alone allowance is under investigation at present. It is expected that the social welfare officer's inquiries will be completed shortly and the claim will be forwarded to a deciding officer for decision. The pensioner will be notified of the outcome in due course.
500.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an application for unemployment assistance will be decided for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal.
The person concerned is at present in receipt of unemployment assistance at £88.30 weekly being the appropriate rate £99.80 less means £11.50. He appealed against the amount of means assessed against him and an appeals officer also assessed him with means of £11.50 weekly.
He has requested a review of his means and his case has been referred to a social welfare officer for investigation. The social welfare officer expects to complete his inquiries shortly after which the assessment of his means will be reviewed in the light of the outcome and the rate of unemployment assistance payable to him will be determined accordingly.
501.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an application for unemployment assistance will be decided for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal.
Following the completion of extensive inquiries the unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned was disallowed on the grounds that his means, derived from self-employment exceeded the statutory limit applicable to him, £2,935.40 per annum.
He was advised accordingly and of his right to appeal and to have his means assessed by an appeals officer.
502.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who has a wife and three children received his full entitlement of social welfare benefit when he was off work for seven weeks recently.
The person concerned claimed disability benefit from 4 September 1984 to 20 October 1984 after which date he was certified fit to resume work. Benefit was paid at the weekly rate of £88.35 the maximum rate appropriate to a married man with three dependent children.
He was also paid pay-related benefit at the weekly rate of £22.53 from 25 September 1984, nineteenth day of incapacity. This amount was subject to the limit which requires that total benefit may not exceed 75 per cent of his reckonable weekly earning in the relevant income tax year. All benefit payable in respect of his claim has been issued to him and there are no arrears due.
503.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will investigate the entitlement of a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon to a contributory pension.
A detailed explanation of the reasons why the person concerned did not qualify for a widow's contributory pension was given in a written reply to a previous question from the Deputy about this case, answered on 3 May 1984.
There has been no change in the position since that date. The qualifying conditions for receipt of a widow's contributory pension are not satisfied on the claimant's own, or her late husband's, insurance record.
All insurance numbers given by the Deputy were taken into account when the claim to widow's contributory pension was initially examined and subsequently disallowed. The "old insurance number" quoted refers to a man of the same name but not the claimant's late husband.
The claimant is currently receiving widow's non-contributory pension at the weekly rate of £58.25. This is the rate payable to a widow under 66 years with three qualified children who has weekly means exceeding £20 but not exceeding £22. Her means derived from a two thirds share in a farm holding are assessed at £20.46 a week. An application from her for an increase in this pension on the grounds of reduced means is at present with a local officer for investigation and she will be notified of the outcome as soon as the officer reports.
504.
(Limerick West) asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick.
Availability for work is a condition of entitlement to unemployment benefit and to fulfil this condition an applicant must be capable of, available for and genuinely seeking work.
The person concerned claimed unemployment benefit on 9 July 1984 and following the completion of inquiries her claim was disallowed on the grounds that she was not available for work.
She did not appeal against the disallowance although she was advised of her right to do so. She has not been in touch with her local office since 22 September 1984 when she last signed as unemployed.
505.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will confirm that the full amount of unemployment assistance is being paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny who is married with five dependent children.
It is confirmed that the person concerned is at present in receipt of unemployment assistance at £94 weekly which is the maximum long term rate of unemployment assistance appropriate to him as a married man with five qualified children and nil means assessed against him.
506.
(Limerick West) asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick.
The unemployment benefit claim of the person concerned was disallowed on the grounds that he did not fulfil the contribution conditions during the relevant contribution period 6 April 1982 to 5 April 1983. He claimed unemployment assistance but his claim was disallowed as the means assessed against him exceeded the statutory limit applicable in his case, £2,587 per annum.
507.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when arrears of disability benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7 for the period 6 October 1984 to 24 November 1984 as this person was sick during this period and only received disability benefit from 26 November 1984 onwards.
The person concerned claimed disability benefit from 19 October 1984 and submitted medical evidence of incapacity to 12 November 1984. The claim was received in the Department on 4 December 1984.
The regulations provide that a person who, without good cause, fails to give notice of incapacity or to submit medical evidence within seven days of the commencement of incapacity is disqualified from receiving disability benefit in respect of any period more than seven days before the date on which such notice of medical evidence is received.
The claimant's explanation for her failure to submit medical evidence at the appropriate time was considered unacceptable and payment was accordingly disallowed. However, the matter has now been further reviewed and it has been decided to admit the claim for payment.
A cheque for £105.48, benefit payable to 12 November 1984, date of the latest certificate received, was issued on 22 January 1985.
508.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Galway who is available for, and actively seeking employment.
Entitlement to unemployment benefit is subject to the condition that an applicant must be fully available for and genuinely seeking work. The claim of the person concerned was disallowed by a deciding officer who was of the opinion that she was not genuinely seeking work. She appealed against the disallowance and she attended an oral hearing of her case on 21 November 1984. The appeals officer also decided that she was not available for employment.
Her claim for unemployment benefit was however admitted from 28 November 1984 at the appropriate weekly rate of £32.75 as she satisfied the required conditions for receipt of unemployment benefit from that date. All arrears of unemployment benefit have been paid and further weekly payments will be made as they become due.
509.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an invalidity pension application will be decided on for a person (details supplied) in County Galway.
The person concerned had been in receipt of disability benefit since 24 October 1983. Following a request to have him considered for transfer to invalidity pension, a medical referee examination was arranged for 21 November 1984, as it is a condition for receipt of that pension that a person must be regarded as permanently incapable of work. However, following that examination the medical referee expressed the opinion that he was capable of work and consequently further payment of disability benefit was disallowed. He has appealed this decision and arrangements are being made to have him examined on 28 January 1985 by a different medical referee. The question of entitlement to disability benefit and invalidity pension will be reviewed after that examination.
510.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will arrange to pay unemployment benefit to a person (details supplied) in County Cork.
The person concerned does not satisfy the contribution condition for entitlement to unemployment benefit on the basis of her Irish contribution record. Her British contribution record may be invoked for the purposes of her claim provided that she has employment at an appropriate class in this country since her return from the United Kingdom.
Inquiries are being made to establish that her employment here from 13 August 1984 to 18 August 1984 was insurable at a class of contribution which provides cover against unemployment. Her entitlement to unemployment benefit will be considered when these inquiries have been completed.
511.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will arrange to pay unemployment assistance to a person (details supplied) in County Cork.
The person concerned claimed unemployment assistance on 18 December 1984 and his claim has been referred to a social welfare officer for inquiries into his means. It is expected that these inquiries will be completed shortly after which his means will be assessed and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be determined accordingly.
512.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if a person (details supplied) in County Wexford is entitled to pay related benefit in addition to his unemployment benefit.
Entitlement to pay-related benefit is subject to the condition that the weekly sum of pay-related benefit, flat rate unemployment benefit and income tax rebate may not exceed 85 per cent of the net average earnings of the claimant.
In order to calculate the 85 per cent limit applicable in the case of the person concerned it is necessary to ascertain his earnings for the period 6 April 1984 to 16 November 1984 as he was unable to supply a form P45. Inquiries are being made to determine his earnings and when these inquiries have been completed his entitlement to pay-related benefit will be determined.
513.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if a person (details supplied) in County Wexford is entitled to a free electricity allowance as he is only in receipt of a State pension.
A free electricity allowance cannot be granted to the person concerned as the pension which he is receiving is not one of the specified payments which would enable him to qualify for this benefit.
514.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary has been cut off disability benefit as he suffers from an occupational disease known as pneumoconiosis which results from coal-mining, and he is on a disablement pension as a result; and when these payments will be resumed; and the back payments which will be granted to him.
Payment of disability benefit to the person concerned was disallowed from 25 June 1984 following examination by a medical referee who considered him to be capable of work. He appealed against the disallowance and was examined on 23 October 1984 by a different medical referee who also considered him to be capable of work.
His case has been referred to an appeals officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing. He will be notified of the time and place of the hearing as soon as the arrangements have been made. The claimant was awarded a disablement pension of 20 per cent for life from 9 April 1982.
515.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Cavan will receive unemployment benefit or assistance.
The entitlement of the person concerned to unemployment benefit could not be determined until inquiries to establish his contribution record had been completed. He declined to claim unemployment assistance pending the outcome of the investigations about his contribution record.
The inquiries were recently completed following which his claim was allowed at the maximum rate appropriate to him £37.25 weekly. He has ceased to sign as unemployed but he is being written to and asked to call to his local office for payment of all unemployment benefit due to him.
516.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment assistance will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry who has been signing for the past three months, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The person concerned applied for unemployment assistance and his case was referred to a social welfare officer for investigation of his means. Inquiries are still being made in the case and when these are completed his means will be assessed in the light of the report of the social welfare officer and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be determined accordingly.
517.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will have the appeal of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny for unemployment assistance investigated as soon as possible with a view to having him granted the full rate of unemployment assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter
The appeal of the person concerned made by him on 16 January 1985 against the amount of means assessed against him will be dealt with at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime payment of unemployment assistance at £13.50 weekly continues to be made to him.
518.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Offaly who is awaiting payment of six weeks arrears of disability benefit will be paid.
The person concerned claimed injury benefit on 17 December 1984 in respect of incapacities which he attributed to an occupational accident on 6 December.
Following confirmation of details of the accident the claim was allowed from the date of the accident. All benefit due in respect of the period to date has been issued including pay-related benefit from 28 December, the nineteenth day of incapacity.
519.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when disability benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Offally in view of the fact that he has submitted nine weekly certificates.
All benefit payable to 14 January 1985, the date of the latest medical certificate received, has now been issued.
520.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who is awaiting pay-related unemployment benefit will be paid.
Entitlement to pay-related benefit with flat rate unemployment benefit is subject to the condition that the weekly sum of pay-related benefit, flat rate unemployment benefit and income tax rebate may not exceed 85 per cent of the net average weekly earnings of a claimant. Inquiries had to be made to establish the person's earnings in the current income tax period, in order to ascertain whether he satisfied the 85 per cent limitation applicable to his case. These inquiries were recently completed following which his entitlement to pay-related benefit was determined at £3.28 weekly. Arrangements have been made to pay all arrears this week.
Further combined payments at £40.53, being flat rate unemployment benefit £37.25 and pay-related benefit £3.28 will be made as they become due.
521.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a non-contributory old age pension will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Clare.
It has been decided that the person concerned is entitled to old age pension at the weekly rate of £26.60 from 29 June 1984 which increased to £29.30 from 6 July 1984. This is the rate to which she is entitled having regard to the assessment of her means consisting of half the weekly value of a holding and capital.
The appropriate pension book payable from 4 January 1985 has been issued. A payable order in respect of arrears due for the period 29 June 1984 to 28 December 1984 issued separately.
522.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason unemployment assistance has been reduced in the case of person (details supplied) in County Galway; if he is aware that this person is now in severe financial hardship as a result of this reduction; and if he will recommend a restoration of the full benefit.
The person concerned was overpaid unemployment assistance amounting to £203.19 when he concurrently worked and signed as unemployed. The amount overpaid is being recovered by weekly deductions of £10 from current unemployment assistance. He is accordingly in receipt of unemployment assistance at present of £52.70 weekly being the maximum rate appropriate to him £62.95 less means £0.25 and deductions of £10 against the amount overpaid.
The person concerned is liable for the amount outstanding which must be recovered within a reasonable time-scale. It is not considered that the level of the deductions is excessive in the circumstances.
523.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the present position with regard to an appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Galway against the discontinuation of his unemployment assistance.
The unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned was disallowed on the grounds that by failing to furnish details of his means he failed to show that his means did not exceed the statutory limit.
Arising out of contentions made by him in support of his appeal against the amount of means assessed against him, his case was referred to a social welfare officer for further inquiries. These inquiries were extensive and were completed recently. His case was submitted to an appeals officer who also decided that by failing to furnish details of his means, he failed to show that his means did not exceed the statutory limit. His unemployment assistance claim is disallowed and he has been informed accordingly.
524.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will arrange for the immediate payment of the maximum rate of unemployment assistance to a person (details supplied) in County Galway.
All unemployment assistance due to the person concerned will be paid to him when he next calls to the local office dealing with his claim. He is the holder of a qualification certificate with means assessed at £19.30 weekly. The weekly rate of unemployment assistance payable to him is £10.65 being the appropriate rate £29.95 less £19.30. However arrangements have been made to have his means reinvestigated by a social welfare officer after which the assessment of his means will be reviewed and the rate of unemployment assistance payable to him will be determined accordingly.
525.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will arrange for the immediate payment of an old age pension to a person (details supplied) in County Galway.
A repeat claim to old age non-contributory pension was received from the person concerned on 9 January 1985. The case has been referred to the social welfare officer for investigation. When the inquiries have been completed the matter will be decided on and the claimant will be notified of the outcome in due course.
526.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kerry was granted only £12 per week unemployment assistance when his period for payment of unemployment benefit expired; and if he will make a statement on the matter, having regard to his long record of work with Bord na Móna.
The person concerned exhausted his entitlement to unemployment benefit on 5 December 1984 when he received benefit for 390 days. He was the holder of a qualification certificate with means assessed at £19.20 weekly and accordingly he is in receipt of unemployment assistance at £12.55 being the appropriate rate £31.75 less £19.20 means. His case has, however, been referred to a social welfare officer for a reinvestigation of his means. When the inquiries are completed the assessment of his means will be reviewed and the rate of unemployment assistance payable to him will be determined accordingly.
527.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason unemployment benefit at the pay-related rate is not being paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Entitlement to pay-related benefit with flat rate unemployment benefit is subject to the condition that the weekly sum of pay-related benefit, flatrate unemployment benefit, and income tax rebate may not exceed 85 per cent of the net average weekly earnings of a claimant.
The 85 per cent limit applicable to the person concerned was £94.02 and as the flat rate unemployment benefit payable since 30 October 1984 was £96.55 per week pay-related benefit was not payable in this case.
528.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment assistance will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry who is signing for the past eight weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The entitlement to unemployment assistance of the person concerned cannot be determined until inquiries about his means by a social welfare officer have been completed. It is expected that the investigation will be completed shortly after which his means will be assessed and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be decided accordingly.
529.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment assistance will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry.
The unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned was disallowed on the grounds that by failing to furnish details of his means he failed to show that his means did not exceed the statutory limit. He appealed against this decision and arising out of contentions made by him in support of his appeal his case was referred to a social welfare officer for further inquiries. These inquiries are extensive and are not yet completed but when they are, his case will be referred to an appeals officer and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be reviewed in the light of the decision of the appeals officer.
530.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kerry had his unemployment assistance reduced from £26 to £12.65 per week; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Following reinvestigation of his unemployment assistance claim the means of the person concerned were assessed at £19.20 weekly derived from the value of board and lodgings on his father's holding. He is accordingly entitled to unemployment assistance at the weekly rate of £12.55 being the appropriate rate payable £31.75 less means £19.20. He appealed against the means assessment and the case was referred to an appeals officer for determination. The appeals officer however requested further information and his case was returned to the social welfare officer for further inquiries. When these inquiries are completed his case will again be submitted to the appeals officer and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be reviewed in the light of the decision of the appeals officer.
531.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the cause of the long delay in paying a living alone allowance to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry who is living alone since 13 January 1984; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
A claim for a living alone allowance from the person concerned, who is in receipt of widow's contributory pension, was received on 20 November 1984.
A social welfare officer was asked to confirm that she is living entirely on her own as is required. When his report, which is expected within the next week or so, is received a decision will be given on her claim without delay and she will be notified of the outcome.
532.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason unemployment benefit has not been paid to a person (details supplied) in County Offaly as he is unemployed since 22 November 1984.
The person is a landholder and an applicant for unemployment benefit and inquiries had to be made to establish whether the profit from his holding exceeded £2 daily as he did not satisfy the contribution condition of 78 paid contributions in a three year period.
Following the completion of inquiries which revealed that the value of his holding exceeded £2 per day, his unemployment benefit claim was disallowed with effect from 22 November 1984. He appealed against the disallowance on 16 January 1985 and arrangements are being made to have his case heard at the earliest opportunity. He is the holder of a qualification certificate with means assessed at £38.45 weekly and he is accordingly being paid unemployment assistance at £20.95 weekly at present.
533.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the total amount due to his Department from a person (details supplied) in County Offaly; and the reason these deductions are being made from her social assistance allowance.
The person concerned had been in receipt of an unmarried mother's allowance since 31 March 1983. She returned her allowance book on 30 December 1983 because she had commenced employment. Following a report by a social welfare officer it was confirmed that she had been employed from 21 October 1983 and her means exceeded the limit from that date. Her allowance was consequently terminated, with effect from 27 October 1983. However she had cashed her allowance book up to 4 January 1984 and in so doing incurred an overpayment amounting to £524.70. Since she did not make other arrangements for refunding this overpayment, it is being deducted over a period from other payments being made to her by the Department. She reapplied for unmarried mother's allowance on 31 October 1984 and the allowance was restored to her with effect from 1 November 1984. An allowance book with orders payable from 20 December 1984 was issued to her. These orders are for a net amount of £45.05 per week, after allowing for a deduction of £6 per week towards recouping the overpayment.
In the meantime the person concerned had also been claiming unemployment benefit and £5 per week had been deducted from this towards the repayment. Deductions from this ceased with effect from the week commencing 27 December 1984.
Arrears of £408.40 in respect of unmarried mother's allowance were due for the period from 1 November 1984 to 19 December 1984. Against this amount £219.76 was offset in respect of excess unemployment benefit of £219.76 already paid for the same period and which arose because of the reduction in the rate of unemployment benefit payable to her to half the personal rate from 1 November 1984 consequent on her concurrent entitlement to unmarried mother's allowance. This left a balance of arrears of unmarried mother's allowance for that period of £188.64 which was offset against the earlier overpayment. The balance of the overpayment was then £116.91. Since then a further £5 was recovered from the unemployment benefit payment in respect of the week commencing 20 December 1984 and £30 has been deducted from the unmarried mother's allowance in respect of the five weeks since 20 December 1984. This leaves a net balance outstanding of £81.91 at present.
534.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment assistance will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Meath who has been signing at Trim employment exchange since July 1983.
The unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned was disallowed following the completion of extensive inquiries on the grounds that his means derived from the benefit from his wife's earnings and the letting value of his land exceeded the statutory limit applicable to him, £3,359.20 per annum. If he is dissatisfied with the decision in his case it is open to him to appeal and to have his means determined by an appeals officer. A form for this purpose may be obtained at his local office.
535.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will state in relation to each of the last five years, the number of applications received for unemployment benefit from (a) women generally; (b) married women; and in respect of each of the above categories (1) the number of applications refused, (2) the number of refusals appealed and (3) the number of successful appeals.
Statistics are not maintained in a way which would enable the information requested by the Deputy to be furnished.
536.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the total number of persons in receipt of (a) deserted wife's allowance; and (b) deserted wife's benefit at the latest date for which figures are available.
The number of recipients of deserted wife's allowance and deserted wife's benefit at 31 December 1984 (the latest date for which figures are available) was 3,653 and 4,403 respectively.
537.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan will receive arrears of unmarried mother's allowance.
The person concerned was awarded deserted wife's benefit on 20 November 1984 with effect from 12 April 1984, and an order book payable from 22 November 1984 was issued to the designated post office for collection by her.
A payable order for the arrears for the period from 12 April 1984 to 21 November 1984, less the amount of unemployment assistance paid to her during that time, will be sent direct to her within the next few days.
538.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a claim for unemployment assistance by a person (details supplied) in County Cork was disallowed.
Following the completion of an investigation by a social welfare officer the person concerned was assessed with means in excess of the statutory limit derived from self-employment. He was dissatisfied with the decision in his case but an appeals officer also assessed him with means in excess of the statutory limit and disallowed his unemployment assistance claim. He recently applied for a review of the assessment of his means and his case was referred to a social worker officer for a further investigation. When the present inquiries are completed the assessment of means will be reviewed and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be determined accordingly.
539.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for the inordinate delay in deciding a claim for unemployment assistance by a person (details supplied) in County Cork which was submitted in April or May 1984.
The person concerned failed to supply full particulars of his means when he was originally interviewed by the social welfare officer. He was afforded another opportunity to co-operate and the case was again returned to the social welfare officer. Inquiries are still being made in the case but when these are completed his means will be assessed and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be determined.
540.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork was only paid disability benefit from 30 June 1984, as he became ill and claimed benefit from 22 June 1984.
The person concerned claimed disability benefit from 22 June 1984. Benefit was issued to him from 30 June 1984 as he had indicated to the Department that he claimed unemployment benefit to 29 June 1984. It has not been established that he was only paid unemployment benefit to 21 June 1984. The arrears of benefit payable from 22 June 1984 to 29 June 1984 have now been issued to him.
541.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will have his appeal on unemployment assistance finalised.
The appeal of the person concerned against the amount of means assessed against him has been referred to an appeals officer who will deal with it at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime weekly payments of unemployment assistance of £25.95, being the appropriate rate £54.80 less means £28.85, continue to be made to him.
542.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for the delay in paying an unemployment assistance claim to a person (details supplied) in County Laois.
The person concerned failed to supply particulars of her home circumstances to the social welfare officer investigating her claim. She was afforded a further opportunity to do so but she failed to supply details of her circumstances. She was accordingly disallowed on the grounds that by failing to furnish particulars of her means she failed to show that her means did not exceed the statutory limit, and was informed accordingly on 8 January 1985. She recently contacted the social welfare officer and said she had changed her address and requested an investigation of her means.
A social welfare officer will again visit her for the purpose of investigating her means and following the completion of inquiries her means will be assessed and her entitlement to unemployment assistance will be determined accordingly.
543.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork is not receiving the maximum rate of unemployment benefit as he is married with two children; and if he will have the matter examined with a view to payment of the maximum rate and all outstanding arrears.
The person concerned had insufficient contributions to be entitled to continuous payment of unemployment benefit at the maximum rate appropriate to him after he received payment for 156 days. He exhausted 156 days on 13 October 1984 and the rate of unemployment benefit payable to him was accordingly reduced from £80.15 weekly to £69.65 with effect from 15 October 1984. His entitlement to pay-related benefit with flat rate unemployment benefit is however still under examination and when the inquiries are completed his entitlement to pay-related benefit will be determined in the light of the outcome.
544.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reasons unemployment assistance has not been paid to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if he is aware of the serious effect that this is having on this person's means and existence; if he will now direct his Department to restore this assistance to this person immediately; the date on which weekly payments will commence and the total amount of arrears that will be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned was disallowed on the grounds that his means exceeded the statutory limit. He appealed against this decision and an appeals officer on 5 June 1984 also assessed him with means exceeding the statutory limit. He was informed accordingly and he has not signed as unemployed since 17 April 1984.
545.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will pay a contributory widow's pension to a person (details supplied) in County Cork.
There is no record of receipt of a claim to widow's contributory pension from the person concerned.
In view of the Deputy's question a social welfare officer has been asked to call on her and have an application form completed. When the form is returned the case will be examined without delay and the claimant will be notified of the outcome.
547.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment assistance will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Cork as his unemployment benefit was cut off on 23 November 1984.
Following the completion of inquiries by a social welfare officer the means of the person concerned were assessed at £12.65 weekly derived from self-employment. He is accordingly entitled to unemployment assistance at £66.85 weekly, being the appropriate rate £79.50 less means £12.65, and all arrears due were paid on 18 January 1985. Further weekly payments will be made as they become due.
548.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will arrange that a person (details supplied) in County Cork will qualify for free electricity from the date she transfers residence as she is on a non-contributory old age pension.
There is no trace either in the Department or in the District ESB Office of an application for a free electricity allowance from the person concerned in respect of her new residence. An application form has therefore been issued to her and it should be completed and forwarded in the first instance to the ESB for attention. On receipt of the completed application in the Department, a decision will be given and she will be notified of the outcome.
549.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be paid unemployment benefit, and the reason for the delay as she applied in September 1984.
The person concerned did not satisfy the contribution conditions for entitlement to unemployment benefit on the basis of her Irish contribution record. Inquiries are being made to establish her British contribution record and on completion of these inquiries her entitlement to unemployment benefit will be determined. In the meantime, she is in receipt of unemployment assistance of £22.45 weekly pending the outcome of her unemployment benefit claim.
550.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork has not been granted his free travel pass and if he will arrange to have it issued to him.
Due to an oversight a free travel pass was not issued to the person concerned when he was awarded a qualifying payment. A pass was issued to him on 18 January 1985.
551.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will arrange for the payment of the over 80 allowance to a person (details supplied) in County Cork as he is aged 87 years and in receipt of £41.30 old age pension, and if he will have all arrears paid to him at an early date.
The appropriate pension book payable from 4 January 1985 has been issued and a payable order covering all arrears due will be issued shortly.
552.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reasons unemployment assistance has not been automatically paid to a person (details supplied) in County Galway who was in receipt of unemployment benefits for a long period of time; and who qualified on all aspects for unemployment assistance and who is in urgent need of money at the moment; if he will now direct his Department to make immediate payments to this applicant; the date on which these payments, including arrears, will be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The person concerned is not the holder of a qualification certificate and accordingly his entitlement to unemployment assistance cannot be determined until the inquiries about his means which are at present being made by a social welfare officer have been completed and his means are assessed.
He had periods of intermittent employment between the date on which he received 156 days of unemployment benefit and the date on which he exhausted 390 days and this employment is under investigation to establish whether the employment is appropriate to a class of contribution which provides cover against unemployment. His entitlement to unemployment assistance or unemployment benefit will be reviewed in the light of the outcome of the investigations.
553.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will explain the five months delay in processing the application for an unmarried mother allowance made by a person (details supplied) in County Cork on 26th August 1984; and when payment will be made.
A decision has been delayed in this case because a number of additional inquiries were necessary. Following these inquiries a letter was sent to the person concerned on 11 January 1985 questioning her compliance with the conditions for the receipt of the allowance. A reply to this letter is awaited. On receipt of her reply a decision will be given without delay.
554.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when arrears of deserted wife's payments will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath.
A payable order for the arrears of deserted wife's allowance for the period from 12 April 1984 to 28 November 1984, less the amount of supplementary welfare allowance paid to her by the Midland Health Board during that time, was sent to the person concerned on 17 January 1985.
555.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment money will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath.
The person concerned applied for unemployment assistance on 10 December 1984 and the case was referred to a social welfare officer for inquiries into his means. When these inquiries are completed his means will be assessed and his entitlement to unemployment assistance will be determined accordingly.
556.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for the delay in the payment of disability benefit to a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath as weekly certs and duplicate certs have been sent to his Department.
The person concerned claimed disability benefit from 29 October 1984.
Special arrangements were made to issue disability benefit payments over the Christmas period which resulted in payment being issued to 24 December 1984 in advance of medical evidence. There was a delay in issuing further payment because it came to light that he was in receipt of supplementary welfare allowance from the health board from 25 December 1984. All benefit payable less the amount of supplementary welfare allowance advanced by the Midland Health Board has been issued to 11 January 1985 the date of the latest medical certificate received.
He is not entitled to pay-related benefit as the amount of disability benefit payable in his case exceeds 75 per cent of his average reckonable weekly earnings in the 1982-83 tax year which governs his claim.
557.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan is not receiving a full rate single person's allowance.
The person concerned is at present in receipt of a single woman's allowance at the weekly rate of £35.35 which is the maximum rate.
558.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if, in view of the sudden closure of a company (details supplied) in County Galway, if he will direct his Department to pay unemployment benefits or assistance to all its employees (details supplied); the relevant amounts to be paid to each person and the date on which these payments will be made; if he will ensure that these payments are made immediately to offset the terrible hardship being imposed on these workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Claims to unemployment benefit by 16 of the 17 persons concerned were made at Tuam employment office on 14 January 1985 and these claims have been authorised for payment from that date subject to the statutory three day "waiting period". Payment will be made this week in these 16 cases. The amount of flat rate unemployment benefit payable in each case will be subject to the individual's contribution record and number of dependants. Pay-related benefit, where appropriate, will be payable on and from the 19th day of unemployment.
The other person concerned obtained the relevant papers to enable him to make a claim to unemployment benefit on 14 January 1985 but he has not as yet returned the papers to the local office. His claim will be dealt with immediately it is received.