Vol. 554 No. 5
1673 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was refused unemployment benefit, based on the stamps paid from seasonal work with Bord na Móna; and when the appeal will be finalised. [15906/02]
The unemployment benefit claim of the person concerned was disallowed as the deciding officer considered, on the basis of the evidence available to him, that he was not genuinely seeking work.
The person concerned appealed that decision to the social welfare appeals office. The case was referred to an appeals officer who was of the opinion that an oral hearing is required. The date of the oral hearing has been set for 8 October in Ballina.
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.
