The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.
I am advised by the Chief Appeals Officer that, due to Covid-19 restrictions, in person oral appeal hearings were suspended since 13 March 2020. Some oral hearings have resumed since 28 July 2020 as restrictions have been eased. Appeals are also being determined on the basis of written submissions. In some cases it has also been possible for Appeals Officers to progress appeals by way of telephone calls and email on issues relating to an appeal (which might otherwise have been ascertained in the course of an oral hearing) and bring the matter to a conclusion.
The Chief Appeals Officer has also advised that the Office is examining the use of video technology for appeal hearings. Among the issues being examined are the most appropriate technological solution and the types of appeal cases that would be potentially suitable for this approach. The use of video technology will need to ensure the maintenance of fair procedures, confidentiality, compliance with data protection and other legal requirements.
I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.