Niamh Smyth
Ceist:102. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection the waiting times for the processing of paternity benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3636/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 26 January 2017
Ceisteanna (102)
Freagraí scríofa
My Department is committed to providing a quality service to all its customers. This includes ensuring that applications are processed and that decisions on entitlement are made as quickly as possible.
Paternity benefit is a new scheme introduced in September 2106. To support the scheme a new technical platform that is capable of accepting online applications and supporting officer decision making was developed. In general, paternity claims are processed within 6 weeks of receipt at present.
I would encourage paternity benefit customers to submit their applications as early as possible and use the on-line application process for speedy processing.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.