Social Welfare Appeals Status

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 May 2014

Tuesday, 13 May 2014

Ceisteanna (367)

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

367. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite a social welfare appeal hearing in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath regarding the refusal of a claim for disability allowance due to a re-classification of a research grant, which is being classified by the deciding officer as income in the hand of the recipient rather than expenses to enable them to continue their research; if this appeal can now be expedited due to the impact it is having upon this person’s ability to complete their educational qualification as part of a rehabilitation process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21135/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Social Protection

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all of the available evidence, has decided to partially allow the appeal of the person concerned by way of a summary decision. The person concerned was notified of the Appeals Officer's decision in writing on 8 May 2014.

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.

Question No. 368 answered with Question No. 348.