Michael Ring
Question:384 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when an oral hearing will be scheduled for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo to finalise their appeal for farm assist. [10102/02]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.
The farm assist payment of the person concerned was reduced in December 2001 on the grounds that his means, derived from farm income, and his wife's earnings had increased.
His appeal against that decision to the social welfare appeals office was referred to an appeals officer who has decided that an oral hearing is appropriate in this case. This will be arranged shortly and the details will be notified to the person concerned.
Under social welfare legislation, decisions on 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.