Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 March 2014
117. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will issue in respect of determination of entitlement to invalidity pension in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14668/14]
View answerInvalidity pension (IP) is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and who satisfy the contribution conditions. A claim for IP was received for the person concerned on 22 November 2013. In order to establish medical eligibility, a diagnostic report issued to the applicant on 16 December 2013 to be completed by his general practitioner or other treating physician. A second diagnostic report issued to the applicant 24 February 2014. To date, a completed diagnostic report has not been returned. The person concerned is currently in receipt of disability allowance (DA) and also continues to submit medical certificates in respect of illness benefit (IB), to which his entitlement to payment has expired. The person concerned attended an in-person medical assessment on 24 March 2014, the results of which will be available shortly. The outcome of this assessment will be examined by a deciding officer in order to determine the person's continuing medical eligibility for IB. The outcome will also be examined by deciding officers in relation to his IP claim and his continuing medical eligibility for DA. If further information is required in order to make a decision on his claim for IP, the Department will request it from the person directly. The Department will also be in touch with the person regarding his IB and DA claims if there is any change in either.
