Vol. 494 No. 4
366 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when an appeal will be finalised for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo, particularly as his partner's income has been reduced even since his appeal was submitted. [18589/98]
The person concerned was in receipt of unemployment assistance at a weekly rate of £68.40 since his return from England in September 1997 based on a ‘nil' means assessment. Following a recent review of his entitlement his means were re-assessed at £32 per week derived from his benefit from his partner's earnings with effect from 27 May 1998 and a deciding officer made a decision to that effect.
An appeal was received in the independent social welfare appeals office from the person concerned against this decision on 21 July 1998 and in accordance with the statutory requirements a submission was requested from the deciding officer on the grounds of appeal advanced. In the light of the grounds of appeal a further investigation of the person's circumstances by an investigating officer of the Department is being carried out. As soon as this is completed the appeal will be considered by an appeals officer.
