Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 July 2021
143. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the extent to which her Department continues to respond expeditiously to applications for various social welfare payments some of which may be Covid-related and some otherwise; if she will ensure that the response is in line with the urgency of the particular case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35279/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is committed to providing a quality service to all its customers, ensuring that applications are processed and that decisions on entitlement for all payments including those that are Covid- related, are made as quickly as possible. Processing times vary across schemes, depending on the different qualification criteria. Means-tested payments can require more detailed investigation and interaction with the applicant, thereby lengthening the decision-making process. Delays can occur if a claim is submitted and all the necessary supporting documentation is not included. If information is required from a social security organisation in another jurisdiction, this can also affect processing times.To help my Department to make timely and fair decisions on all applications, applicants should ensure that they complete the application forms fully, providing all the supporting documentation required as per the checklist provided on the application forms. In cases where there is an urgent need for assistance a person may make an application for supplementary welfare allowance while waiting for a decision on their claim for another social welfare payment. I wish to reassure the Deputy that claim processing is kept under active review, with all possible steps taken to improve processing times and customer service. This includes the assignment of additional resources, where available, and the review of business processes, to ensure the efficient processing of applications.
