Vol. 504 No. 3
78 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the reason for the delay in the hearing of appeals particularly in the case of a person (details supplied); and the plans, if any, he has to allocate resources to clear the backlog. [11806/99]
The person concerned was in receipt of disability benefit from April 1997 as a result of a road traffic accident in which she sustained injuries to her neck and back. Her claim was disallowed from 10 September 1998 following an examination by a medical assessor of the Department who considered she was capable of work. She appealed this decision to the social welfare appeals office and was examined by another medical assessor who was also of the opinion that she was capable of work. An appeals officer, having examined the case, decided that an oral hearing of the appeal should take place before a decision is made and this is scheduled to take place on 19 May 1999.
A certain level of delay is inevitable where cases go to appeal, particularly where an oral hearing is required and the necessary arrangements have to be made. An additional delay occurs where, as in cases of this kind, a second medical examination is required. The appeals process is quasi-judicial and the procedures which apply are designed to ensure that every case gets full and satisfactory consideration.
There has been a significant increase in recent years in the number of appeals being put before the social welfare appeals office. Additional appeals officers were appointed to deal with the increase but there is still a backlog to be dealt with.
This matter is being addressed and any necessary measures will be taken to minimise the delays in dealing with appeals.
