asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware that at the present time there is no provision for payment of a medical adviser of an insured worker, who might be of vital assistance when for any reason an appeal is made by an insured worker on the grounds of incapacity for work, etc.; and whether he will consider making such provision.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Payment of Medical Adviser of Insured Worker.
12.
An appeals officer has power under sub-section (10) of Section 44 of the Social Welfare Act, 1952, to award to any person any costs or expenses arising out of the hearing of an appeal which he may consider reasonable. Accordingly, if the medical adviser of an insured person attends at the hearing of an appeal on the grounds of incapacity for work, the appeals officer may make an award to him for his attendance. It is considered that this provision is adequate.
The Parliamentary Secretary will agree that it is permissible for the officer hearing the appeal to award payment to the doctor? Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the ordinary doctor in Limerick will not attend an appeal case if his payment is hypothetical and not guaranteed? Surely, in all justice, if a doctor is attending a patient and is conversant with the case, he should be the person to appear before the appeals officer?
The Deputy is now making a speech.
Do I understand that Parliamentary Secretary to say that the necessary expenses and fees will be paid?
Sub-section (10) of Section 44 says:—
"An appeals officer may, in relation to any matter referred to them under this section, award to any person any costs or expenses (including expenses representing loss of remunerative time) which he considers reasonable, and the award shall be payable by the Minister."
I am afraid that would not cover medical fees.
It covers solicitors.
They are not permitted to appear.
In certain cases.
Before a court of referees?
Yes.