The person concerned informed Blanchardstown Intreo Office that he would be absent from the country for 4 weeks from 24 September to 21 October 2013. As is normal procedure, his payments of jobseeker’s allowance were suspended pending him contacting the office upon his return. After 4 weeks, when the person concerned did not present himself at the office, his claim was closed. He next presented at the office on 6 November 2013, more than 6 weeks later, and a new claim has been awarded from that date. Given the duration of his absence from the State, no arrears are payable to him.