Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
757. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on whether it is appropriate for the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office to be holding oral hearings in Intreo offices; if this practice will undermine the integrity of the appeals process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48237/23]
View answerThe Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of my Department which is independent in its decision making functions.
An in-person oral hearing may be convened where an appeals officer is of the view that such a hearing is required to determine an appeal. Intreo office's have been used to hold a number of in person oral hearings. An Intreo office can be a suitable location where it is local to the appellant and the facilities are accessible and appropriate for the hearing.
Regardless of where the oral hearing is held, each appeal is considered on its own merits and an appeals officer makes an independent decision.
Since 2020 Appeals Officers have made greater use of telephony and online solutions to conduct oral hearings. This approach has proven to be an effective way of facilitating oral hearings for appellants and appeals officers in some cases.
The appeals process is quasi-judicial and decisions are subject to review by the High Court.
The Chief Appeals Officer is satisfied that appeals officers can remain independent in their decision making while conducting an oral hearing in an Intreo office.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
