Michael Ring
Question:209 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for an oral hearing to finalise her disability appeal. [17096/00]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.
The person's application for invalidity pension was disallowed as she was not regarded as satisfying the condition of being permanently incapable of work. Evidence available to the Department suggests that she is actively employed in the running of her own farm holding.
The person appealed this decision to the independent social welfare appeals office. The appeal was considered by an appeals officer who has decided that an oral hearing is necessary. This will be arranged as soon as possible.
Michael Ring
Question:210 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a disability benefit appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be finalised; if he will be scheduled for an oral hearing; and if he will give the date in this regard. [17097/00]
The payment of disability benefit to the person concerned was discontinued from 18 May 2000 following an examination by a medical assessor of the Department who expressed the view that he was capable of work.
The person has appealed this decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office and in the context of his appeal he will be examined by another medical assessor. He will be notified when this examination is arranged.
The person is currently in receipt of unemployment benefit pending the resolution of his appeal.