Michael Ring
Ceist:658 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be reassessed for the farm assist scheme. [18515/99]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.
The person concerned was in receipt of smallholders' unemployment assistance at the weekly rate of £71.50 based on a means assessment from the holding of £2 per week.
In the context of his application for farm assist, it emerged that his circumstances had changed and that he had married on 22 May 1999. His means were re-assessed at £58 per week to take account of the benefit he is deriving from his wife's income from insurable employment. The new assessment had the effect of reducing his unemployment assistance rate to £15.50 per week. He appealed the decision to the independent social welfare appeals office. Following consideration of his appeal, the appeals officer considers that means have been properly and correctly assessed and he has disallowed the appeal. The person concerned has been informed accordingly.
Michael Ring
Ceist:659 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will have a disability allowance restored. [18520/99]
The disability benefit of the person concerned was disallowed by a deciding officer following an examination by a medical assessor who considered that he was capable of work. He appealed this decision to the independent social welfare appeals office and an oral hearing has been arranged for Thursday, 30 September in Westport.
The appeal will be considered in the light of the information received at the oral hearing and the person concerned will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible.