Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004
1349 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her Department will consider the concept of self-assessment for applications for non-contributory or means-tested schemes such as carer’s allowance and their being subject to ongoing audits in the future on a random basis to ensure that the information furnished is correct; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22490/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe methods by which means are determined for social welfare schemes varies within and across schemes depending on the nature of the scheme. In the case of carer's allowance, approximately 25% of claims are desk assessed. This means that means are determined on the basis of the information supplied on the claim form or by subsequent correspondence. The remainder of claims are referred to a social welfare inspector who visits the customer at his or her home. These latter cases usually involve more complex means issues or where the information supplied on the claim form is incomplete. Cases may also be referred to an inspector for a home visit where there are issues, other than means, which require clarification before a decision can be made. Similar procedures apply in the case of other schemes such as one parent family payment and disability allowance.
The existing arrangements take into account the Department's obligations to ensure that an effective control programme is in place. The control programme is multi-faceted involving checks at time of claiming, where appropriate, as well as reviews of means and the continued fulfilment of other statutory conditions for receipt of the relevant payment.
The arrangements for the processing of social assistance payments will continue to be developed in the context of providing an enhanced service to all our customers and stakeholders and to ensuring that the resources of the Department are used in the most efficient and effective manner.
