Michael Ring
Question:330 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if persons (details supplied) in County Mayo can be reassessed again for a disability allowance and a carers allowance respectively. [9478/01]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
The persons concerned have been in receipt of reduced rate disability allowance of £29.50 per week and carer's allowance of £50.50 per week respectively. Their joint means are derived from a retirement pension from the United Kingdom, half of which is assessed against each member of the couple.
In calculating the disability allowance entitlement of the wife in this case the full amount of British pension was assessed against her in error from 27 September 2000 when the husband qualified for British retirement pension. The entitlements of both have now been reviewed and an increase in the rate of disability allowance to £51.50 per week is payable with effect from 4 April 2001. The position with regard to the rate of carer's allowance payable remains unchanged. Arrears of disability allowance for the period from September 2000 will be issued shortly.
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.