Vol. 576 No. 5
445 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is being denied child benefit in respect of their 16 year old daughter, who is in full-time education in a private school; and if this matter can be investigated and payment made as soon as possible. [29673/03]
Payment of child benefit between the ages of 16 and 19 is contingent on receipt of appropriate certification. The person concerned has been advised of the requirements to be met in the circumstances of her case and as soon as the required information is received – documentary evidence confirming that the child has been registered with the Department of Education and Science to sit the leaving certificate examination – payment of child benefit will be extended and any arrears due will be paid.
446 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason an application for one parent family payment by a person (details supplied) in County Wexford, which was submitted to her Department in April 2003, is still awaiting a decision; if a decision in this case will be made without further delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29680/03]
Investigations in this case have taken longer than usual because the person concerned has changed address a number of times since her original application. She was interviewed by an inspector of my Department on each occasion.
The latest interview took place on 4 December when she was requested to supply additional information relating to her means. As soon as she supplies this information, a decision will be made on her entitlement and she will be notified of the outcome. In the meantime, she continues to receive unemployment benefit. Under social welfare legislation, decisions in relation to claims must be decided by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
