Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 September 2024
250. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection if illness benefit will be approved for a person (details supplied) as a matter of urgency; and if the application will be back dated to the commencement of their illness given their employer deducted the benefit amount from their salary. [37310/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe person concerned made a claim to Illness Benefit and this claim was registered in my Department on the 19th July 2024.
Their application, based upon all the evidence submitted, was refused as the application date had lapsed beyond six months. This decision was made in accordance with Section 241 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005.
The person concerned was notified in writing of this decision on 6th September 2024 and was also notified of their right to request a review of this decision or to appeal it to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office (SWAO).
Following this, an appeal was lodged on the 9th September 2024. The Deciding Officer responsible for the appeal established an acceptable reason for the delay on the claim. I was advised the person was contacted, and further medical certificates were requested.
On the condition that the medical certificates being sought are sent into the Deciding Officer, the claim can be processed. It will be necessary to receive this additional information as evidence to substantiate the claim for back dating.
If the person concerned is experiencing difficulties in meeting her basic financial commitments it is also open to her to contact the Community Welfare Service at her local Intreo Centre to see if she might qualify for assistance under the terms of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
