P. J. Sheehan
Question:163 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a decision will be made on an appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Cork for unemployment assistance. [31073/01]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.
The person concerned, who has been in receipt of unemployment assistance, was asked on 25 October 2001 to complete a questionnaire to establish that he continued to satisfy the statutory conditions. The deciding officer, having considered the response, was of the opinion the person concerned was not genuinely seeking work and disallowed his claim. The person concerned has appealed this decision to the social welfare appeals office. An appeals officer has examined his case and is of the opinion that an oral hearing is necessary. This will be arranged 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.