Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 January 2017
640. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a social protection overpayment to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1381/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 17 August 2016. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought from the Department of Social Protection. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 24 November 2016. The case was referred to an Appeals Officer on 5 December 2016 who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral 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.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
