asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason an old age non-contributory pension has been discontinued in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; if arrangements will be made to have the person reinstated on an appeal basis; and the present position in this regard.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
47.
The person concerned was awarded an old age non-contributory pension with effect from 24 January 1984. His claim was disallowed on 18 January 1989 as a deciding officer found that his means exceeded the statutory limit.
The case has been referred for reinvestigation of means to the local social welfare officer. The officer has been asked to expedite his inquiries and as soon as the details of income have been confirmed by the person concerned a decision will be given as to his entitlement and he will be notified accordingly.
48.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an oral hearing appeal will be arranged in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford in relation to his eligibility for disability benefit; and if he will expedite the matter in view of the delay involved.
The person concerned was paid disability benefit to 3 March 1989 after which date payment was disallowed following examination by a medical referee who expressed the opinion that he was capable of work. He appealed against the disallowance of benefit and was examined by a different medical referee on 4 May 1989 who also expressed the opinion that the man was capable of work.
His appeal has been referred to an appeals officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing of his claim as soon as possible. The person concerned may claim unemployment benefit or supplementary welfare allowance while awaiting the result of his appeal.
49.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if the decision to cease disability benefit payments for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford on the grounds that he was capable of work will be reconsidered on an appeal basis; and if he will expedite a second medical referee examination in this case.
The entitlement of the person concerned to disability benefit based on his insurance record ceased on 12 July 1988 when 52 weeks benefit had been paid to him. In order to requalify for benefit, it will be necessary for him to have at least a further 13 weeks of insurable employment for which the appropriate contributions have been paid.
The person concerned continued to submit medical evidence to qualify for credited contributions. He was referred for examination by a medical referee of the Department who was of the opinion that the person concerned was capable of work and accordingly no longer entitled to credited contributions. A further examination by a medical referee is being arranged to determine his continuing entitlement to credited contributions.