Vol. 542 No. 5
376 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the reason an application by a person (details supplied) in County Wexford for a free fuel allowance has been refused; if he will review this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25049/01]
The aim of the national fuel scheme is to assist householders. Persons on long-term social welfare or health board payments who live alone or with certain other social welfare recipients can qualify for fuel allowance where they are unable to provide for their own heating needs. The person concerned is in receipt of invalidity pension. However, the person with whom she resides is not in receipt of a qualifying payment for the purposes of the scheme and her application for fuel allowance had to be refused. If she has special heating needs and is unable to provide for those needs, she may apply for a special needs payment under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme in respect of heating. An application for this supplement may be made through her local community welfare officer.
377.Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when an application by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo for a carer's allowance will be approved. [25053/01]
The person concerned is in receipt of carers allowance at the maximum weekly rate of £98.50, 125.07, for one care recipient. She has been awarded an increase of carer's allowance in respect of a second care recipient, with effect from 21 September 2000. She has been notified of this decision and the necessary arrangements for payment are being made.
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.
378 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when an application by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo for a carer's allowance will be dealt with. [25054/01]
The person concerned applied for a carer's allowance on 6 September 2001. Her application has been referred to an investigative officer of my Department for a means assessment and to confirm that the conditions for receipt of carer's allowance are fulfilled. Her entitlement will be further examined in light of the investigative officer's report.
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.
