asked the Minister for Social Welfare in the latest year for which figures are available: (1) the number of applications received from married women for unemployment benefit and (2) the number refused on the grounds of non-availability for work; if he has satisfied himself that married women with children are not being discriminated against by deciding officers in relation to applications for unemployment benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Statistics.
13.
Statistics are not maintained in a manner which would allow the information sought by the Deputy in this case to be furnished.
It is a statutory condition for receipt of unemployment benefit that persons must be available for and genuinely seeking employment suitable for them having regard to their age, sex, physique, education, normal occupation, place of residence and family circumstances.
Whether claimants are deemed to be available for and genuinely seeking work is a matter which is determined by statutorily appointed deciding officers. Each case is determined on its merits through the application of standard criteria. Persons who are dissatisfied with the decisions on their claims have the right to have their cases submitted for consideration by an appeals officer where the person has the opportunity to explain in person her particular circumstances. I am satisfied that the procedures followed in dealing with claims provide for decisions to be made in an impartial and non-discriminatory manner.