Michael Ring
Question:121 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive a carer's allowance. [8505/01]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
The person concerned applied for a carer's allowance on 29 January 2001. Carer's allowance is a social assistance payment made to persons who are providing full-time care and attention to elderly people or to people with disabilities whose income falls below certain limits. The principal conditions for receipt of the allowance are that full-time care and atten tion is required and being provided and that the means test which applies is satisfied.
The case has been referred to an investigation officer of my Department for a means assessment and to confirm that the conditions for receipt of carer's allowance are satisfied. On receipt of the investigation officer's report, the claim will be considered and the person concerned will be notified of the outcome. 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.