Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 February 2022
560. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a disability payment for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10021/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing notification from jobseekers allowance (JA) regarding the spouse of the person concerned and their commencement of employment, a review of the disability allowance (DA) was carried out. Departmental records show that both parties are living at the same address.
On 17th August 2021, a request for information regarding their spouse's earnings, which was required in order to carry out a review of their means, was issued to this person . On receipt of the requested information a review was carried out and the person concerned was informed of the decision in writing on 26th August 2021 and of their right to request a review of the decision or to appeal it with the independent social welfare appeals office (SWAO).
The person concerned appealed the decision to assess means on their DA to the SWAO stating that their husband was not living with them. On 20 January 2022 their appeal was disallowed as the Appeals Officer found that the evidence does not establish that they are separated or living as separate household units and they were informed of this directly in writing by that office.
Their file has been sent to a social welfare inspector (SWI) for a report on their means and circumstances to be completed. On receipt of this report a further review will be carried out.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
