asked the Minister for Social Welfare what is the reason for the very long delay in dealing with, and deciding on, the claim for disability benefit of a person (Insurance No. 1031836); and if he will ensure that an early decision is made in the case.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disability Benefit Claim.
56.
There was no avoidable delay in dealing with the case in question. At the date of his claim the insured person was not entitled to benefit as he did not fulfil the statutory conditions; he had no contributions or credits since 1952. In order to establish title it was necessary to make a full investigation covering a break in his insurance of over ten years. The inquiries were protracted but eventually evidence was adduced which indicated that the insured person had been incapable of work from 1953 onwards and credits were granted accordingly. This enabled the benefit claim to be allowed but as the insured person is in an institution he is precluded by regulations from receiving payment. Arrangements have, however, been made for the payment to him of regular advances for comforts while he remains in the institution. The balance of the benefit due accrues to his credit and will be paid on discharge.
I am quite well aware of that information. Does the Minister not agree that considering that this man's case was heard on appeal in October of last year, and notwithstanding the fact that a decision was given in his favour, no benefit was made available to him until last Monday, following the putting down by me of a Question on the previous Friday, although, repeatedly, every week, I communicated with the Department on the matter? Does the Minister not agree that that is undue delay?
It was necessary to investigate a period of 10 years.
But not since last October. There was no investigation since.
This investigation took place since last October.
No, indeed, it did not. The case was decided on appeal last October.