Michael Ring
Ceist:1351 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a reassessment can be arranged of the means of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo for unemployment assistance. [20029/03]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Appeals.
The person concerned applied for unemployment assistance on 14 July. A deciding officer assessed his weekly means at €73, derived from benefit and privilege from his parental income. This assessment entitled him to payment of unemployment assistance at the weekly rate of €51.80. On 21 July he was awarded this rate with effect from the date of his application.
On 6 August, following correspondence to the local office, his case was referred again to a local inspector. Following a review the inspector recommended no change in the means assessment.
It is open to the person concerned to appeal the decision in his case. A form for this purpose was issued to him on 18 September.
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.