Michael Ring
Ceist:909 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when the farm assist appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be finalised. [1778/01]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.
Following a review, a deciding officer assessed the weekly means of the person concerned at £76, derived from benefit from spouse's earnings. This assessment gives the person concerned entitlement to farm assist payment at the weekly rate of £8.10. He appealed this decision to the social welfare appeals office. On 22 January 2001 an appeals officer upheld the deciding officer's decision. Under social welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions. An appeals officer's decision is final in the absence of new facts or fresh evidence.