Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 October 2015
111. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if there is any form of payment available for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo who has been given permission by the Minister's Department to continue on a vocational training opportunities scheme until June 2016. [36908/15]
View answerThe person concerned was in receipt of illness benefit but, following an examination by one of the Department's Medical Assessors, the opinion was expressed that she was capable of work. The matter was further examined by a Deciding Officer who, having examined all the aspects of the case, upheld the Medical Assessor's opinion. Payment of illness benefit had, therefore, to cease from 16 October 2015. The person concerned has been informed of the decision and of the right of appeal to the independent Appeals Office.
Meanwhile, while on a Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme, the person may apply for Supplementary Welfare Allowance if they find that their means are insufficient to meet their needs. Application may be made to the Community welfare Services at the local Health Centre or Intreo Office.
