Michael Ring
Ceist:994 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if an oral hearing can be scheduled for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo regarding this person's claim and appeal for unemployment benefit. [1357/03]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.
A deciding officer disallowed the unemployment benefit claim of the person concerned and an appeals officer upheld this decision. A letter outlining the grounds of the appeals officer's decision was issued to the person concerned on 19 December 2002. An appeals officer's decision is final in the absence of new facts or fresh evidence.
It is open to the person concerned to submit further information for consideration by the appeals officer who may decide to hold an oral hearing if he feels this is warranted.
Under social welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims and the insurability of employment 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.