Violet-Anne Wynne
Question:408. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Social Protection how many carer’s allowance applications were disallowed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21372/24]
View answerTuesday, 14 May 2024
Questions (408)
Written answers
Carer's Allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a child or an adult who has such a disability that, as a result, they require that level of care.
I can confirm that 10,875 CA applications were disallowed in 2023. To date in 2024, 3,384 CA applications have been disallowed.
Decisions in relation to all Social Welfare schemes are made by Deciding Officers (DOs). All DOs are required to make decisions in a fair and impartial manner and in accordance with the legislative provisions for the relevant scheme. Ongoing training and guidance is provided to ensure that the DOs apply these criteria correctly.
Where an application is disallowed, the customer is given an explanation of the basis for the decision in writing. Customers are also advised of their right to have the decision reviewed where further information has become available and / or to appeal the decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.