Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2012
428 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an invalidity pension appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20245/12]
View answerI am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all the evidence, disallowed the appeal of the person concerned by way of summary decision. Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of the Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed by the Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts. Following the submission of additional evidence the Appeals Officer agreed to review the case. He is satisfied that a revision of his decision is not warranted. Accordingly the original decision stands. 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.
