Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 May 2014
357. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason rent supplement payment was withdrawn in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22228/14]
View answer358. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an appeal against the refusal of rent supplement in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; if it will be expedited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22229/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 357 and 358 together.
Following a review of the entitlement, under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, rent supplement has been refused to the person concerned on the grounds that she failed to supply documentation as requested, she has not re-negotiated her rent in line with the Department’s new rent limits and has not provided proof that she has been in contact with her Local Authority regarding her housing needs.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 30th April 2014. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought from the Department of Social Protection. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 12th May 2014 and the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on 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 in relation to social welfare entitlements.
