Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
944. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Social Protection if it is an accepted practice for social welfare inspectors to carry out unannounced visits to the homes of persons receiving social welfare payments; and if so, the guidelines and protocols the inspectors operate under; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33937/20]
View answerSocial Welfare Inspectors operate under a code of practice which sets out the manner in which they are required to deal with customers. The code requires that customers must at all times be treated equally, fairly, with respect and dignity, as outlined in the Customer Charter. They are required to carry out a range of inspections and reviews including desk-based assessments of customer claims, face-to-face interviews with customers, home visits, and audits of employers’ PRSI records.
In undertaking their function of inspection and reviews, an inspector may need to make notified or un-notified home visits.
It is important to point out that, unlike a workplace, there is no statutory power of entry and Social Welfare Inspectors only enter a private home if invited. If an inspector is refused entry to a private home they may request that the person make themselves available for interview at an alternative agreed location.
My Department also has a Customer Charter in place which sets out what a customer should expect when they contact, or are contacted by, the Department. Customer complaints in relation to Social Welfare Inspectors, or any other staff, are dealt with by local management and disciplinary action if deemed to be warranted may be activated by my Department's Human Resources Division.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
