Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 October 2009
454 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding an illness benefit appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and when they can expect to receive a decision. [37233/09]
View answerI am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that, in accordance with statutory requirements, the Department was asked for the documentation in the case and the Deciding Officer's comments on the grounds of the appeal. In that context, an examination by another Medical Assessor will be carried out. The person concerned will be notified when arrangements for the examination have been completed. The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
455 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will arrange a means review for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo for jobseeker’s allowance. [37236/09]
View answerA Social Welfare Inspector completed a means review in respect of the person concerned on 28 September, 2009, and a Deciding Officer has issued a revised means decision. However, as he is dissatisfied with the revised decision his appeal has been forwarded to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office for determination. 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.
