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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 3

Written Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.

Michael Ring

Question:

311 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when an oral hearing will be scheduled to finalise a disability benefit appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that the delay is causing severe financial hardship. [26301/00]

The person concerned was in receipt of disability benefit from 28 December 1998. Payment was disallowed by a deciding officer from 18 May 2000 following an examination by a medical assessor who considered that she was capable of work.

She appealed against this decision to the social welfare appeals office and, in that context, she was examined by another medical assessor who was also of the opinion that she was capable of work.

The appeals officer has considered her appeal and has decided that an oral hearing is necessary. This will be arranged as soon as possible.

Under social welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.

Michael Ring

Question:

312 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 his appeal for unemployment assistance/benefit in view of the fact the delay is causing severe hardship. [26302/00]

Michael Ring

Question:

313 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if his Department can identify where there is employment in a town in Mayo for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that he is unable to secure work despite continued genuine efforts. [26303/00]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 312 and 313 together.

The person's application for unemployment assistance was disallowed by a deciding officer on the grounds that he was considered not to be genuinely seeking work.

His appeal against this decision has been con sidered by an appeals officer who is of the opinion that an oral hearing is necessary. This will be arranged as soon as possible.
Under social welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
The person has been advised that it is open to him to apply to the community welfare officer for supplementary welfare allowance pending the outcome of his appeal.
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