Vol. 497 No. 2
33 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the reason for the delay in processing unemployment assistance claims and appeals in respect of small farm holders, particularly in relation to the current farming crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24469/98]
I am acutely aware of the difficulties being experienced by the farming community at the present time. Accordingly, field staff have been advised that, while farm income is normally assessed on the basis of the preceding year, the current pressures require that account be taken of the prevailing circumstances.
My understanding is that new claims for unemployment assistance made by smallholders are being dealt with expeditiously. Bearing in mind that each individual applicant must be interviewed to ascertain his-her particular circumstances, I am satisfied that there is no undue delay on the part of my Department in processing such cases. There are no indications of a significant increase in the level of requests for review of entitlement over recent weeks.
Separate statistics are not available in respect of unemployment assistance appeals made by smallholders, which are processed in the same manner as other appeals in this category. However, as every appeal case must be given full and satisfactory consideration, there is an inevitable time lapse inherent in the process which is governed by statutory and fair procedure requirements.
If the Deputy has concerns about a particular case, it will be examined on receipt of the details.
