Illness Benefit Appeals

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 November 2019

Tuesday, 26 November 2019

Questions (456)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

456. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the status of an illness benefit appeal by a person (details submitted); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48528/19]

Written answers

Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was referred on 27 September 2019 to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing.  I have also been advised that, following initial consideration of the appeal, the Appeals Officer requested additional medical evidence from the person concerned on 7 November 2019.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.