Vol. 561 No. 4
490 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare did not qualify for the full social welfare payment; the reason this person's means was assessed at ?70.00; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4800/03]
The person concerned had been in receipt of unemployment assistance at the weekly rate of €85.80.
Following a review of the person's entitlement he was assessed with means of €71 per week derived from income from his father's farm. His rate of unemployment assistance was revised to €53.80 with effect from 1 January.
The person concerned has appealed against this decision and the necessary papers are being prepared. When this is complete the case will be referred to an appeals officer for early consideration.
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.
