Scope section in the Department of Social Protection makes statutory decisions on insurability of employment under the Social Welfare Act. Employers, employees and the self-employed may apply to Scope for an investigation of an employment status and a determination of the correct class of PRSI. Scope decisions are based on all available evidence, including a report from a social welfare inspector where appropriate, and the case law from previous court judgements.
A number of test cases in relation to the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) Contract Meter Readers were investigated by Scope. It was determined by Scope that the work of ESB Contract Meter Readers was insurable at PRSI Class S from 1 September 2009.
These decisions, including the case referred to by the Deputy, have been appealed to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. The Office operates independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions of Scope section.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.