Marian Harkin
Question:266. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Social Protection for a timeline on a decision for an appeal for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26996/24]
View answerTuesday, 25 June 2024
Questions (266)
Written answers
The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an Office of the Department of Social Protection which is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements. Appeals Officers are independent in their decision making functions. The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 12 April 2024. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought from the Department of Social Protection. The Appeals Office have reminded the department that these papers are required.Once those papers are received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer, who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if necessary, hold an oral hearing. I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.