Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 June 2021
397. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Social Protection if the case of a person (details supplied) will be addressed and the reason for refusing a domiciliary care allocation for them re-examined considering their complex needs. [32990/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all of the available evidence, decided to disallow the appeal of the person concerned by way of a summary decision on 1 February 2021.
Under social welfare legislation the decision of an Appeals Officer is generally final and conclusive. However, it may be reviewed by an Appeals Officer under section 317 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 in the light of new evidence or new facts that were not before the Appeals Officer when the decision was made.
I am advised that the Appeals Officer has agreed to review their decision, if the person concerned submits additional evidence to support their case.
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 trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
