Michael Healy-Rae
Question:690. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection if assistance will be expedited for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36039/23]
View answerTuesday, 25 July 2023
Questions (690)
Written answers
The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an Office of the Department of Social Protection which is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements. Appeals Officers are independent in their decision-making functions.
I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all the evidence, disallowed the appeal of the person concerned by way of summary decision on the 27th June 2023.
Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of the Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed by the Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts. I am advised that the person concerned has been contacted by the Appeals Office and given the opportunity to provide any additional evidence pertaining to their case. On receipt of this information the Appeals Office will recall the relevant papers from the Department and the appeal will be referred to an Appeals Officer for review. The regulations governing appeals provide that it is a matter for the Appeals Officer to decide whether an oral hearing is required or whether an appeal can be decided by way of summary decision.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.