For the reasons stated in my response to Parliamentary Question Ref. No. 35427/11 on 17 November 2011, the claim of the person concerned for rent supplement was disallowed by an Appeals Officer of the Community Welfare Service of the Health Service Executive on 23 May 2011. The person was informed of his right to a further appeal to the Chief Appeals Officer and that such appeal must be made, in writing, within 21 days of the date of that decision. I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that no appeal by the person concerned has been received by that office. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.