To be entitled to unemployment assistance a person must satisfy a means test and demonstrate that he or she is capable of, available for and genuinely seeking, but unable to obtain, suitable employment. Decisions regarding entitlement to unemployment assistance are made by a deciding officer. Deciding officers are statutorily appointed under section 246 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, 1993, and are independent in the execution of their function. Each decision is made on the particular merits of the case, having regard to the information supplied by the claimant and, where appropriate, the report of the social welfare inspector. Inspectors operate under a strict code of practice which sets out the manner in which they are required to deal with the public. They are instructed to take account of individual rights and entitlements while carrying out inquiries and investigations, to exercise their powers with courtesy and discernment and not to exceed those powers. Claimants are required to furnish the inspector with any information and – or documentation deemed relevant to the claim. Inspectors, having examined the information and supporting documentation, will, if necessary, seek further clarification of any gaps and inconsistencies identified. Claimants are provided with an opportunity to respond and furnish further supporting evidence.