Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 October 2023
143. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite a decision on a carers allowance appeal by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44503/23]
View answerThe 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.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that a Carers Allowance appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 26 August 2023. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. When these papers have been received from the Department, the case in question will be referred 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 appeal hearing.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has contacted the Carers Allowance section in the Department of Social Protection for an update on the appeal submission request.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
