Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 December 2013
70. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite a decision on a carer's allowance appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51996/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on the 10th October 2013. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. When these papers have been received from the Department, the case in question will be 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 appeal hearing.
In the meantime, if the means of the person concerned are insufficient to meet their needs, it is open to them to contact their local community welfare service to explore their possible entitlement to supplementary welfare allowance pending the outcome of their appeal process.
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 in relation to social welfare entitlements.
