I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an oral hearing of the appeals of the person concerned took place on 14th September 2016 and that the Appeals Officer is now considering the appeals in the light of all of the evidence submitted, including that adduced at the oral hearing. The person concerned will be notified of the Appeals Officer’s decision when the appeals have been determined.
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.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.