Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 September 2014
97. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection when an oral hearing will be rescheduled in order that an appeal can be determined in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; the reason the date initially scheduled for an oral hearing was cancelled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33723/14]
View answerThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal from the estate of the person concerned relating to an overpayment of widow’s non-contributory pension was referred to an Appeals Officer who decided to hold an oral hearing in this case. The oral hearing was scheduled for the 27th August 2014. At the request of the Department this oral hearing was postponed as the Deciding Officer was unable to attend. It is likely that the hearing will now take place on the 17th October 2014. The person concerned will be notified of the arrangements as soon as these are finalised.
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.
