Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 January 2014
398. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the progress made to date in determination of eligibility for disability allowance in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1563/14]
View answerI am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all of the available evidence, decided to disallow the appeal of the person concerned. Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of an Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed in the light of additional evidence or new facts.
I am advised that the person concerned submitted additional evidence and that the Appeals Officer agreed to hold an Oral Hearing in this case. However, the person concerned submitted further additional evidence which the Appeals Officer has considered and has decided to allow the appeal. The person concerned has been notified of the Appeals Officer’s decision.
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 in relation to social welfare entitlements.
