Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:530. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of an appeal by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19473/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 2 May 2017
Ceisteanna (530)
Freagraí scríofa
I am advised by the Department that an overpayment in the sum of € 35,662.87 has been assessed against the person concerned on the grounds that she was in receipt of Illness Benefit while she was in employment. The period covers 902 days in the period from 2nd March 2007 to 26th October 2015. A breakdown of the overpayment is attached.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 25th April 2017. 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.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.