Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2012
578. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite a decision on an invalidity pension appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48321/12]
View answerThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 10th September 2012. In accordance with the statutory requirements the Appeals Office contacted the person concerned asking her to set out the complete grounds of her appeal. These have now been received and the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal have been sought. When received, the appeal in question will be referred in to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing.
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.
