Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 11 Mar 1992

Vol. 417 No. 2

Written Answers. - Appeals Procedure.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

178 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Social Welfare if his attention has been drawn to the growing concern regarding the length of time it can take for the processing of appeals from the date of lodging the first appeal right through to the final decision of the independent appeals office; the steps, if any, he intends taking to speed up the processing of appeals as in some cases it is taking almost nine months to go through the whole procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Mr. McCreevy)

Statistics for 1991 indicate a substantial increase in the numbers of people availing of their right to appeal. This increase has put a considerable strain on the resources of the new Social Welfare Appeals Office and this in turn has somewhat restricted progress on improving the processing times for appeals. I have temporarily appointed an additional two appeals officers so that a speedier and more efficient service can be provided.

The chief appeals officer is obliged by law to submit an annual report to me within six months of the end of each year. As soon as I receive his report for 1991, the overall success and operation of the Social Welfare Appeals Office will be further reviewed.