The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the disability allowance appeal of the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who decided to hold an oral hearing in this case on 6 December 2016. However, the hearing was adjourned in order to allow the provision of additional information. On receipt of the additional evidence the Appeals Officer will schedule a further 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.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.