Michael Ring
Question:115 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the reason incorrect information was given in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 132 of 8 November 2001. [28389/01]
Written Answers. - Pension Provisions.
The information given to the Deputy in response to his earlier question in this case was accurate; the file was with the local officer for further inquiries at that time. The additional information requested was received from the local officer on 12 November. In the light of this information the person concerned has been awarded a non-contributory widow's pension at the weekly rate of £57.50 – 73.01. The award is with effect from 20 July 2001 based on weekly means of £32.88 – 41.75, derived from employment and income from a holding. A payable order book will issue to Lahardane Post Office within the next week.
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.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:116 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a decision will be made on an application for invalidity pension by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28436/01]
The person concerned applied for an invalidity pension on 25 October 2001. To qualify for invalidity pension an applicant must be permanently incapable of work. The person concerned was examined on 7 November 2001 by a medical assessor of this Department who expressed the opinion that she was currently incapable of work but not permanently so. Accordingly, she was refused invalidity pension by decision dated 12 November 2001. She was notified of this decision and the reasons for it and of her right of appeal to the independent social welfare appeals office.
The person concerned was awarded disability allowance on 12 November 2001 with effect from 10 October 2001 at £85.50 – 108.56. Payment by personalised payable order will commence on 5 December 2001. Any arrears due will issue by payable order 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.