Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 January 2019
651. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if it is correct procedure for a social welfare inspector to call to the place of work of a person when they are working; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2885/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraSocial Welfare Inspectors, SWIs, are appointed under Section 250 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 (as amended) and are required to investigate and report on customer’s claims and confirm that scheme conditionality is in order. They also have a role in ensuring that compliance is in order in relation to employer’s PRSI.
As part of their investigations, SWIs may need to call to a person's place of employment when they are working. This depends on the scheme involved and the specific circumstances of each case. It is at the discretion of the Inspector to decide whether or not visits to an employer are necessary. Such visits to a person's place of employment are generally an operational control measure. The inspector may notify the employer and or the person in advance or may have reasons for not doing.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
