Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 February 2013
407. Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will ensure that a disability allowance appeal will be processed as a matter of urgency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5191/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraPartial capacity benefit was awarded, to the person concerned, following an assessment by a Medical Assessor of the Department who expressed the opinion that her restriction on capacity for work should be assessed as moderate. An appeal was opened and in the context of that appeal, her case was reviewed by a second Medical Assessor who upheld the previous opinion.
I am informed by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that, in the light of this second medical opinion, that office has decided to afford her an opportunity of setting out the complete and up to date grounds of her appeal. On receipt of her response the relevant Departmental papers will be requested from the Department and the appeal will then be referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration.
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.
