Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 31 March 2021
663. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on a matter raised in correspondence by a person (details supplied) relating to the disability allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16567/21]
View answerThe person concerned submitted an application for disability allowance (DA) on 9 December 2020. Their application was refused on medical grounds as it was not found that the person concerned was substantially restricted in taking up employment, based on all the evidence submitted. The person concerned was notified in writing of this decision on 29h January 2021 and was also notified of their right to request a review of this decision or to appeal it to the independent social welfare appeals office (SWAO). No request for an appeal or review was received.
The person concerned submitted a second application for DA on 9 March 2021 and based on the additional information which was provided, her case was reviewed and she has been awarded with effect from her original application date on 9 December 2020. Her first payment will be on 31 March 2021 and arrears of allowance due will issue as soon as possible.
My Department is committed to ensuring that all claims are processed in a fair and consistent manner. The DA scheme area continuously monitors and reviews the decision making process. Documentary evidence is required from the customer in order to establish if applicants meet the qualifying conditions (means, medical and habitual residence) for receipt of DA. For this reason it can require detailed investigations and interaction with the applicant, thereby lengthening the decision making process.
I would like to assure you that my Department is committed to continuously improving the customer experience, and is currently reviewing the DA application form with a view to making it easier to complete. This procedural change will provide a more focused approach in the provision of necessary documentation, and assist in the decision making process within current policy and legislation.
One of the conditions for receiving DA is that a person must have an injury, disease or other disability and as a result of this disability, they must be substantially restricted in undertaking work that would otherwise be suitable for a person of similar age, experience and qualifications.
Assessments of medical eligibility for DA are based on medical reports and other evidence furnished by the applicant and the applicant’s doctors. The Department does not dispute the diagnosis of the persons’ own doctors. Eligibility is assessed on a case by case basis and is determined by its severity, and resultant effects on activities of daily living and work-related activities. On receipt of additional medical evidence in this case, the medical criteria for DA was deemed to have been satisfied.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
