Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 September 2009
919 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when the appeal for jobseeker’s allowance for a person (details supplied) will be dealt with; the effort she is making to reduce the waiting times for appeals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31298/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn relation to the person concerned, I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that the relevant Departmental papers and comments of the Department's deciding officer on the grounds of the appeal have been received and that the case has been referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration. Every effort will be made to have the appeal determined as quickly as possible.
As regards waiting times, I am advised that the average time taken in 2008 to process all appeals (i.e. those decided summarily and by way of oral hearing) was 22 weeks. However, if allowance is made for the 25% most protracted cases, the average time fell to just over 14 weeks. Those average processing times replicate those for 2007 notwithstanding the fact there was an increase of 27% in the number of appeals received during 2008. There has been an increase of 32% in the number of appeals received so far this year compared to last year and, having regard to the current volume of appeals awaiting determination, two additional Appeals Officers were appointed to the Social Welfare Appeals Office earlier this year.
Furthermore, I am advised that the Chief Appeals Officer is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals having regard to due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice. The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
