Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
566. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the procedures in place to detect the use of forged or AI generated documents submitted in support of social welfare claims; whether his Department has experienced an increase in suspected fraud involving forged or AI generated documentation in the past three years; the number of cases referred to investigation annually since 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32180/26]
View answerMy department is committed to ensuring that only those people who are eligible, receive welfare and other payments. Achieving this requires that robust safeguards are in place that secure our payment systems, detect possible fraud and error, and prevent possible fraudulent claiming.
In order to combat the use of forged documents the department has a range of verification processes in place to validate and verify the information provided by a customer. The department also engages in data matching with external bodies and agencies to identify inconsistencies in information provided. Information is only exchanged in line with the appropriate legislative provisions.
There are a range of reasons that a claim may be refused or stopped. The department does not maintain specific records of claims that are refused or stopped as a result of forged documentation.
My department continues to work in an ever-changing environment and is constantly required to meet new challenges and update its processes to remain alert and to respond to new and emerging forms of fraud and non-compliance.
