Michael Ring
Question:335 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when an appeal for a carer's allowance by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will take place. [4532/02]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
The person concerned applied for a carer's allowance on 20 November 2001. The principal conditions for receipt of the allowance are that full-time care and attention is required and being provided and that the means test which applies is satisfied. His application was refused on the grounds that full-time care and attention was not required in this case. He was notified of this decision and of his right of appeal to the social welfare appeals office. The file has now been forwarded to the social welfare appeals office which will be in contact with the person concerned regarding his appeal. 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.