Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 6 September 2019
1817. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the procedure for the review of a decision made regarding a claim for supplementary welfare allowance; her views on whether the review should be dealt with by a different person within her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35376/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe supplementary welfare allowance (SWA) scheme provides assistance to eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependants. The main purpose of the scheme is to provide immediate and flexible assistance for those in need who do not qualify for payment under other State schemes.
Supports provided under the SWA scheme can consist of a basic primary weekly payment and/or a weekly/monthly supplement in respect of certain expenses, as well as single exceptional needs payments (ENPs) and urgent needs payments (UNPs).
Determinations made in relation to claims made under Sections 196, 197 and 198 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation Act) 2005, namely basic weekly SWA and supplements, can be appealed to the Social Welfare Appeals Office under Section 311 of that Act.
Determinations made in relation to claims made under Sections 200, 201 and 202 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation Act) 2005, namely allowances-in-kind, ENPs and UNPs, can be reviewed by a SWA Reviewing Officer under Section 323 of that Act.
In all cases where new facts or evidence is produced by the applicant, the officer who made the initial determination, or another officer, can review the claim and make a revised determination where appropriate.
Decisions on claims are communicated to customers in writing, as well as the customer’s right to appeal or review, as appropriate.
I do not propose to amend these procedures at this time.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
