Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2015
218. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the status of an application-appeal in respect of an invalidity pension by a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; if the appeal will be expedited; and if an oral hearing will be considered as the medical evidence states clearly that the applicant will not be able to work for the foreseeable future. [20422/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 21 May 2015. 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.
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.
