asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason disability benefit was refused from 17 June 1986 in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who at the time of the decision was immobilised and definitely incapable of work; the benefit or payment for which he is now eligible; if he will make restrospective payment of sick or disability benefit from 17 June 1986 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Disability Benefit.
78.
The person concerned claimed disability benefit from 20 December 1985. He was examined by a medical referee on 9 June 1986, who expressed the opinion that he was capable of work. Benefit was disallowed from the 17 June 1986 and the claimant appealed against this decision. He was examined again by a different medical referee on 19 August 1986 who also found him capable of work. His case was then referred to an appeals officer who decided that he was not incapable of work for the period 17 June 1986 to 28 November 1986, the date of the latest medical evidence before him and was not entitled to be paid for that period. The appeals officer's decision is final and conclusive and can only be changed in the light of new facts or fresh medical evidence.
The person concerned continued to submit medical evidence and was referred for another medical examination. He was examined by a medical referee on 1 April 1987, who expressed the opinion that he was capable of work. He appealed this decision and arrangements are being made to have him examined again in the near future. The claimant was hospitalised for the period 2 November 1987 to 14 November 1987 and payment has been issued for this period. His entitlement to benefit from 29 November 1986 will be considered in the light of the latest medical referee's report.
If his means are insufficient to meet his needs he should contact his local community welfare officer with a view to claiming supplementary welfare allowance.