Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 November 2014
171. Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection when a decision will be made on an appeal of carer's allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; the timeframe involved in finalising such cases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43060/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 23rd October 2014. 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 (average waiting time 31.1 weeks) on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral appeal hearing (average waiting time 35.5 weeks).
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.
