asked the Minister for Social Welfare why a small farmer in County Donegal (details supplied), who has five children and whose valuation is £3.20, has had his weekly unemployment assistance payments reduced from £24.00 to £6.00.
Written Answers. - County Donegal Unemployment Assistance.
106.
The rate of unemployment assistance payable to the person concerned was reduced as a result of a decision by a deciding officer assessing his weekly rate of means for qualification certificate purposes at £18.15 with effect from 23rd July, 1975. This assessment was confirmed on appeal by an appeals officer.
On the basis of this rate of means the applicant, is entitled subject to the usual conditions for receiving it, to payment of unemployment assistance at the weekly rate of £6.05, that is the maximum rate of £24.20 payable in his case less £18.15 means. An appeals officer's decision is final in the absence of new facts or fresh evidence.