Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 April 2016
22. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork was refused a carer's allowance; if this claim was appealed to the independent appeals office; if so, the outcome of this appeal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7304/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraFirstly, I would like to convey my sympathy and that of the Department to the person concerned for their bereavement.
The person concerned was refused carer’s allowance on the grounds that he failed to co-operate with a social welfare inspector (SWI) and, as a consequence, the SWI was not able to complete his report nor to establish means. The person concerned was notified on 4 November 2014 of this decision, the reason for it and of his right of review and appeal.
The person concerned appealed this decision and the case was submitted to the Social Welfare Appeals office for determination. An Appeals Officer (AO), having fully considered all of the available evidence, disallowed the appeal.
The person concerned was notified on the 25 September 2015 of the AO’s decision and was provided at that time with an explanation of the basis for this decision. Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of an AO is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed in the light of additional evidence or new facts.
