Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 September 2012
193. Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in Dublin 16 is waiting six months on a social welfare appeal; if she will ensure that they receive a decision shortly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40151/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 22 March 2012. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 24th April 2012 and the case has been referred to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
